Fernie Fix December 2022

THE

Come Together ISSUE

IN THIS ISSUE: Special Feature with Krista Turcasso on different ways we can help others during the holiday season. Feature Artist Chloe Cottam on her love for knitting and creating, Claire treats us to two easy holiday recipes, Feature Resident Gayle Vallance on Fernie housing and volunteering, new columnist Marianne Agnew shares wise words on how to cope as a caregiver during the holidays and flip to the back for some holiday-themed Fernie Fun!

THE

Come Together

ISSUE

EDITOR’S FIX p5

COME TOGETHER ISSUE

SPECIAL FEATURE p7

Holiday Helpers by Krista Turcasso

BUSINESS IN THE VALLEY p9 Business News

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT p12

Feature Artist – Chloe Cottam

Everyone Eats – Holiday Double Header by Claire Smallwood

ArtBeat – O Come Let Us Algorithm by Michael Hepher

At Peace and Yet on Fire – The Watering Tree by Sadie Rosgen

Rental Fix – Cyrano by Andrew Vallance

COMMUNITY p24

Feature Resident – Gayle Vallance

The Art of Caregiving – The Holidays: Stress or Success by Marianne Agnew At the Ground Level – Beavers in Winter by Sylvia Ayers, illustrated by Sarah Pullen Mountain Tails – It’s a Dog Meets Dog World by Valerie Barry

EVENTS CALENDAR p29

HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE p31

Winter Sports School Family –Who We Are by Wendy Reade

Slow Travel – Holiday Travel Tips by Patrick Robertson

This is Life – Improving Relationships, Starting with You by Tyla Charbonneau

BITS AND BYTES p43

The Answer Guy – Mexican Cell by Kevin McIsaac

Astrology – December 2022 by Ashley Kristina

Through the Lens – Come Together Issue The Social Page

FERNIE FUN p50

The Last Page

COVER: A frozen world

Photo by Taylor’d Images Photography @taylord_images_photography

THIS PAGE: Pre-shred morning vibes with Ladies On Edge Photo by Vince Mo, @findingvmo

Contributors

ANDREW VALLANCE is a cinephile nerd who currently lives on the west coast. Girlfriendless, he spends his time going to movies, buying DVDs and flirting.

ASHLEY KRISTINA has studied astrology for over twenty years and has been reading/teaching for five. For an in depth natal chart reading, email mountainashastrology@gmail.com.

CLAIRE SMALLWOOD is an avid skier, mediocre snowboarder, former personal chef, and newlyminted hockey fan. When Claire’s not on the slopes or whipping up red chile sauce, you can find her at the helm of SheJumps, the non-profit she cofounded in 2007 with a mission to transform the lives of women and girls through outdoor experiences.

KEVIN MCISAAC haunts the coffee shops and streets of Fernie to find his column source material.

MARIANNE AGNEW is an over-achiever who can be found hosting on the ski hill, the Nordic hut, or ringing the Salvation Army bells. She loves to paint and write about her experiences.

MICHAEL HEPHER is a painter, printmaker, sculptor and musician living and working in Fernie. His work is collected internationally and can be seen at Clawhammer Press and a variety of galleries in Western Canada.

PATRICK ROBERTSON is a travel writer and long-time resident of Fernie. He is an expert in planning independent travel and finding budget travel deals.Visit his website at budgetslowtravel.com and on Facebook at facebook.com/budgetslowtravel.

Every month SADIE ROSGEN teams up with some of Fernie’s brightest young writers collaborating on a given theme. If you are reading this and think that you are that person, drop her a line at sadiepumps@ gmail.com.

SARAH PULLEN, a first year University student, has a passion for all things creative. She looks forward to pursuing a Fine Arts degree and discovering a world of diversity and culture beyond our mountain town.

SYLVIA AYERS is a tenacious naturalist and believes each one of us can have a big impact on making things better if we just know how.

TYLA CHARBONNEAU is a Registered Psychologist (CPBC2385), dog momma, and nature lover. She loves talking with others about mindfulness, self-compassion, and human nature.

VALERIE BARRY is the longtime owner and head trainer of Dog Partners (dogpartners.ca). She is a multi-credentialed and highly educated professional dog trainer who specializes in behaviour modification and helping families raise friendly puppies.

WENDY READE is the director of Snow School at Fernie Alpine Resort, and has been with the Winter Sports School for 25 years. She is passionate about the program, proud of her team and loves teaching and coaching.

FERNIE FIX | FERNIEFIX.COM

Published monthly by Claris Media. To advertise and for general inquiries: info@clarismedia.com Box 1124, 361A 1st Ave. Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 p: 250-423-4062 | clarismedia.com

KRISTA TURCASSO, Publisher and Editor of the Fernie Fix, has been passionate about writing since she could pick up a pencil. After graduating with a BA and an MBA, she found her way back to Fernie, and put this passion and experience to use through the pages of the Fernie Fix. When not at her computer, Krista is with her family, in the mountains or working with various organizations.

VANESSA CROOME, Publisher and Creative Director of the Fernie Fix is a graphic designer by trade who is passionate about exploring another side of her creativity through painting. You’ll find her in the studio, on the trails inspired by what surrounds her, or in the community volunteering.

All content copyright Claris Media. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher.

Claris Media acknowledges that the land on which we work, gather and recreate is the traditional and unceded territory of the Ktunaxa people. We are very grateful for this place and the abundance it provides.

Editor’s Fix

By Krista Turcasso, Editor

Sometimes, I take on too much. (Okay, my family might say most times. But acknowledgment is the first step, right?)

The holidays make it challenging for me to ignore this… habit? addiction? of mine, as I begin to feel increasingly overwhelmed with the list of things that need to get done, alongside the regular school / work / activity schedules. But guess what I’ve learned – how to decide when to say yes and when to say no. I go through some questions, play through some scenarios, and check in with my partner, sisters and friends before committing. Sometimes, even after and guess what? The world doesn’t stop turning if you change your mind! Here are some of the questions that help me out.

Is it important to me? My kids? My family?

Would it help other people going through a hard time?

Do I have the capacity?

Will saying yes negatively impact other areas of my life or my family?

Will it truly make a difference this holiday season?

I have also learned that this time of year is about people. Looking back, it is the feeling of Christmas with my family I remember most. The magic and love that happens when everyone comes together with one end in mind – to celebrate, to give, to share. I want my kids to remember that, too.

All the best to you and yours, here’s to not overcommiitting this holiday season.

This time of year, we all tend to want to spread the love and support, not only because ‘it’s the season of giving,’ but also because we recognize the challenges and emotions that can come with the holidays. So, just how can we make an impact locally?

Make a donation to an organization that is meaningful to you.

Non-profit organizations and the volunteers who run them are the bones of community. They see where there is a need or opportunity, and raise funds and apply for grants and create partnerships to meet it. We are so fortunate to be home to inspiring groups, doing fantastic work.

Adopt a family through the Salvation Army’s Christmas Hamper Campaign.

Christmas can add a lot of extra financial stress to families already struggling to make ends meet. This program hopes to deliver holiday cheer to vulnerable families through food hampers and gifts for children. Call 250-423-4668 for info.You can also call this number to register if you are in need of support this year.

Make a difference and reach a reader through CBAL’s Books for Kids campaign.

You can do this through their site (cbal. org) by purchasing socks or a Love2Learn shirt. Funds from this campaign support books for children and youth, and family programs.

Donate your time!

Volunteering is not only good for you, it’s good for your community. Every organization you come across could use a little help, and also a little recognition.

Holiday Helpers

by KRISTA TURCASSO

Volunteer burnout is a thing, the more community members who put their hands up, the better for everyone.

Essentials go a long way.

The Fernie Women’s Resource Center is always in need of day-to-day items such as diapers, grocery gift cards, gas gift cards, pads, tampons, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes and deodorant.

Go out of your way for the people you see making a difference.

Tell a teacher just how much impact they are having on your kid’s life. Thank a friend who spends hours organizing events for the betterment of their community. Surprise someone who is overwhelmed with a ‘treat yo’ self’ gift so they are forced to take time for them… and babysit if childcare is one of their challenges.

In discussion with a local non-profit, a few really important points were shared with me:

• If you donate money give the organization the flexibility to use the funds in the areas of priority they have identified.

• Try to donate items that are only in excellent shape, like new or nearly new.

• Do not drop off items outside of designated times or if you aren’t sure if they can be useful to the agency. This can often just create more work for an overworked non-profit.

Take a good look around, and I bet it won’t be difficult for you to find ways to support your fellow community members this holiday season.

A non-perishable food donation helps fill the shelves at the Food Bank | V. Croome Photo

Curry Bowl

931 7th Ave 250-423-2695

Chef David Miles is happily the new owner of the Curry Bowl.

“I’m excited to carry on the legacy and bring my twist to the restaurant. Our menu will highlight flavours from all countries that embrace curry as part of their culinary heritage,” Dave says.

While Asian food requires important ingredients, Dave’s style as a chef is to use as much local and seasonal product as possible, such as locally produced produce and proteins. Having travelled to parts of south east Asia, he is excited to bring some of those flavours and recipes to the menu.

Curry Bowl will re-open as a dine-in and take away restaurant, providing a welcoming environment for all to enjoy, offering honest and well-prepared food for all dietary choices. With so many culinary directions under the Asian food umbrella, Curry Bowl will also create features and limited time dishes to keep things exciting.

Edge of the World

421B 2nd Ave 250-423-9292

Edge of the World needs YOU to decorate their Christmas tree! To get into the holiday spirit Edge of the World is running a fun DIY project for all ages. Create a one of a kind Christmas ornament to hang on their tree for an entry to win a stocking full of prizes! Creations must be able to hang from a tree branch and be handmade (wood, paper, cardboard, popsicle sticks, etc.).

Every ornament handed in will be entered into a draw for a stocking prize pack, one draw for kids and one for ages 13 and over. Hand in your creations to the store until Dec 20, with the draw for the stockings taking place on Dec 21. One entry per person. Happy crafting!

Elk Valley Streak

#FernieStreak is getting a revamp for January 2023! With the whole Elk Valley streaking their hearts out for the past four years, it’s time to unite the valley and streak forth, together!

It’s simple. 30 minutes a day of ANY outside activity, every day (or as many as

Fernie and the Rockies Calendar

danyaltaylor.ca

The Fernie and the Rockies Calendar is back with beautiful photography showcasing our region.

Danyal Taylor is a local photographer in Fernie and each year he puts together incredible photos into a 13-month calendar. There is a stunning image for each month, wonderful to hang on your wall at home or work and also a great gift idea for friends, clients and family.You can purchase them at danyaltaylor.ca or in store at Polar Peek Books on 2nd Ave.

you can), for the month of January, while raising invaluable funds for a great cause –Uplift Association. More info (including the streak calendar) in the January Fernie Fix, on Facebook #ElkValleyStreak group and here:

Submitted Photo

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Submitted Photo

How a Local Artist Showcases the

#ColumbiaBasin.

The painting, called Home/Place, captures the essence of the Columbia Basin and is the centrepiece of Fernie artist Michael Hepher’s exhibition In This Together. The concept of In This Together started with a previous project.

In 2018, the Fernie and District Arts Council received support from the Trust to paint a mural on a downtown wall. Hepher was tasked with encapsulating what life in Fernie meant.

stories.ourtrust.org

Then, when he was considering applying to the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance—which administers Trust funds to create vibrant arts and culture in the Basin—he considered how he could expand the Fernie mural idea to encompass the entire region. The result was 28 paintings and nine prints—a huge achievement.

A glimpse into the remarkable stories of people and places in the Columbia Basin

Big Trees of the Inland Temperate Forests of British

Columbia

by Terry Nelson bigtreesbc.com

Local adventurer, author and self-professed “big tree geek” Terry Nelson invites all to join him for a book launch presentation at the Fernie Museum on Saturday, December 3 at 7pm.

With the release of his second book, Big Trees of the Inland Temperate Forests of British Columbia, he offers us a glimpse into his past years of explorations into some of the BC Interiors great old-growth forests. With a flare for capturing the visual landscape through vivid photography, and a quirky way of textually conveying his experiences to the reader, his book will leave you standing by a big tree, with all of your sensory capacity expanded to receive the goodness that a forest offers.

The book will be available for purchase at bookstores everywhere, ordered and shipped through bigtreesbc.com, and locally at Polar Peek Books and Treasures.

REEL Canadian Film Festival

fernielovesfilm.ca

The Reel Canadian Film Society (RCFS) is excited to announce the 15th Annual REEL Canadian Film Festival taking place January 27-29, 2023! This year’s festival is gearing up to continue with a diverse selection of films touching on different themes and genres showcasing the talent, diversity, and independence of the Canadian Film Industry.

New this year: Local Reels. Local Reels are short films (amateur or pro), under 10 minutes, showcasing the skills and creativity of local filmmakers. These shorts will be shown on the big screen before REEL feature films. RCFS is seeking submissions for this component of the film festival, whether you are an experienced or up and coming filmmaker located in the Kootenays, we want to hear from you!

Contact adventure@jameshillman.ca to enquire about Local Reels or visit fernielovesfilm.ca for more information about the film festival and to purchase a weekend pass.

Salvation Army

741 2nd Ave 250-423-4716

Mexican Mondays are back for the second year at the Salvation Army. What are Mexican Mondays, you may be asking?

It is a casual dine-in meal hosted at the Salvation Army every Monday evening sponsored by Mountainside Community Church. The best part is that it’s free! The intention is to bless the community in a practical way and the desire is for it to not just simply be a burrito, but that Mexican Mondays can offer friendship, a meal and a warm welcoming space, especially to those new to our community.

Doors open at 6:15pm at the Salvation Army and Mexican Mondays will be running for the entire winter season. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a burrito. Come check it out this Monday!

Submitted Photo

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Chloe Cottam

Growing up in the Crowsnest Pass, I was always interested in the arts, and particularly drawn to textiles. Both my grandmothers were prolific sewers, and during her visits to our home, my paternal grandmother taught me a lot about all aspects of sewing. When I was about 11 years old, a knitting class was offered at a local yarn shop, and I enrolled in

classes where I cultivated a passion for this new hobby.

I continued knitting throughout high school, and enjoyed pursuing various forms of art and craft, deciding during my post-secondary studies to focus on becoming better at one thing. I chose knitting, experimenting with

new techniques and patterns that I taught myself by watching YouTube videos and through a lot of trial and error. I loved the challenge and find there are always new things to learn. I work with a variety of yarns, and whenever possible I like to source out natural hand-dyed yarn. In the last couple of years, I have also learned to crochet and have begun

to experiment with new designs, such as 1970’s inspired crocheted halter tops.

When COVID came along, I found myself out of a job as a massage therapist, and decided to throw myself full-time into my knitting. I found a lot of support for my work through the markets I attended as well as the website I created to showcase my work. I even received bulk orders for dozens of newborn baby booties and hats, which I was so grateful for. Knitting through the first year of COVID in

particular proved to be a wonderful antidote to the anxiety and uncertainty of the time.

In 2019 I joined the Fernie Arts Co-op, which has been a wonderful venue in which to showcase my work. I love giving people handmade gifts - it’s one of the best things about creating! Through my interactions with people at markets and the Fernie Arts Co-op, I know that there are many people who feel the same way. Knowing that people are wearing my creations and finding pleasure in the fact

that they are handmade, brings me joy and keeps me knitting! I am the sort of person who needs to keep my hands busy, so knitting is the perfect accompaniment to an evening with Netflix during the long winter evenings, and I am grateful for all the support I receive in my creative endeavours.

For more on Chloe and to see her work, follow her on Instagram and Facebook at @cj_handmade_ or stop by the Fernie Arts Co-op in downtown Fernie.

Holiday Double Header

by CLAIRE SMALLWOOD

If you get invited to some holiday parties this year, here are two easy and delicious recipes to substitute for chips and dip. The pear tart is quite literally one of the easiest and most delicious desserts I’ve ever made.

Naughty Cauliflower

This amazing appetizer can double as a side dish at a dinner party. I’ve seen “lactose intolerant” become “lactose tolerable” due to the deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 1 whole head of cauliflower, leaves removed. Cut bottom of stem so the cauliflower can sit balanced in baking dish

• Juice of one whole lemon

• 1 cup of heavy cream, maybe 1 ¼ cup if your cauliflower is large

• One box of Boursin cheese, any flavour

• Salt and pepper

• Bread for serving (I recommend making crostinis)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Boil the whole head of cauliflower in salted water until it’s soft to the touch, usually about 10-12 minutes.

Place cauliflower in a baking dish (one that works as a serving dish as well is preferable) and season generously with salt and pepper. Slowly pour lemon juice and heavy cream onto the cauliflower so it soaks into the cauliflower. Unwrap the Boursin cheese and remove one half of the foil wrapping. Using your whole hand, press the Boursin (foil against your skin, hehe) onto the cauliflower like you’re palming a basketball. Press to expand the Boursin all over the top of the cauliflower.

Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until liquid is bubbling. This might take up to 45 minutes to ensure that the cream has reduced and it’s not too liquidy.

Ser ve with olive oil crostinis or gluten free crackers. Eating it straight out of the dish is also perfectly acceptable, as is keeping all the crispy creamy Boursin bits for yourself.

Pear Tart

The trick to making the pear look so symmetrical is to quarter the pear lengthwise, then cut off the rounded pieces and discard (or eat!). The pear you use doesn’t have to be perfectly ripe, or it could be very overripe!

Makes 1 tart in ceramic pie dish, preferably shallow.

Submitted Photo

“...here are two easy and delicious recipes to substitute for chips and dip.”

• 1 cup flour

• 1 cup sugar (use coar se)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp cinnamon

• 1 egg

• 1 stick of butter (½ cup)

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1 pinch of salt

• 1 pear

Mix all dr y ingredients thoroughly. Cut in chunks of butter or margarine (it helps to have the margarine as cold as possible) and toss in the flour. Add 1 egg and vanilla.

Using a pastr y cutter, break the yoke of the egg and start to ‘whisk’ the dry ingredients and butter together, careful not to overmix. You basically want the egg to incorporate with the flour, and the butter should remain fairly chunky.

Dump the mixture into the pie dish (do not press down, just make sure it’s evenly distributed) and arrange the pear (thinly sliced, symmetrical pieces) in a delicate circle. Sprinkle with sugar and bake in the oven at 375 for 35 minutes, rotating halfway through.

If you overcook it, the crust will be rock hard. It’s ok for the middle to still be a bit soft when you pull it out.You can substitute other fruit for the pear: I’ve made it with strawberries or apples, no problem!

Correction from my Friendship Burritos article in November Fernie Fix Issue: Fernie has been blessed with a once-amonth pop-up: Bootleg Burritos! Check ‘em out @bootlegburritos

Pear Tart | Submitted Photo

O Come Let Us Algorithm

by MICHAEL HEPHER

I think we can all agree that there are some hard economic times ahead and being that most of us creatives choose lifestyle over stability, I suspect those struggles will affect artists disproportionately. It may be a hard winter for some of us, so it’s a good thing we are out of the box thinkers.

When I joined Instag ram 11 years ago it was a quirky, wild community of creatives looking for community and connection, sharing our process, and random oddities overlaid with retro filters and frames. It was a digital space that managed to preserve some heart. Over the years Instagram has developed into an advanced websphere for merchandise hawking and time wasting—you have to really wade deep to find the vestiges of the heart it once had.

Social media was originally hailed as a grassroots movement of empowerment in self-promotion. The general public finally had the power to share, like, and follow whoever inspired us, which caused a great unraveling of the power structures in many fields—certainly in mainstream arts. Every industry needs gatekeepers. In the pre-social media era, gallerists and curators decided what art was ‘good’ and allowed it to pass into their institution. There is nothing wrong with curated work, but there was plenty of great art out there that was either ahead of its time or just not discovered. Artists who didn’t fit the idea of what was en vogue for the time were left trying to eke out a living in the peripheries of the art world, and social media helped change that and many unique artists found their way to a sustainable art practice.

Over the years my own creative life has moved away from a dedicated retail space, primarily so I could spend more time

making art and less time selling it. Without that downtown retail exposure, Instagram became a lifeline for me to the letterpress community as well as for the promotion of new products and projects. Making sure my work, and my ‘feed’ were of the best quality content was an important part of my life. It kept my followers engaged and interested. I had great conversations and followers became acquaintances and then friends—and then something changed: Instagram started curating peoples’ feeds. A mysterious algorithm rather than the individual user took charge of what we see and by how many people—just the latest example of how money ruins the good things. The social media revolution is over.

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“...and then something changed: Instagram started curating peoples’ feeds. A mysterious algorithm rather than the individual user took charge of what we see and by how many people—just the latest example of how money ruins the good things.”

The recent shift to ‘TikToks’ from still images by almost every social media app has further intruded on my working time: now I’m thinking about camera angles and lighting when I should be thinking about my art. I’m not a videographer—I don’t want to be—but if I don’t play by the new ‘rules’ my carefully crafted website and online store sits virtually unused.

I don’t mind paying to be seen. Like all mediums, the gatekeepers all need their piece of the pie. If I am going to pay, however, I’d like to be in control of the medium and most artists I know don’t have the skills or desire to make videos, and simply can’t afford to pay someone to put together motion content with the regularity needed to keep on top of the algorithm. These online social spaces that used to be supportive communities have been monetized into popularity contests that use an elusive (and hardly guaranteed) future payoff as the dangling carrot.

The only way to get around the algorithm is for all of us to take an active approach in our feed. Instagram won’t hide a post if we seek it out. Make a note of artists you admire and periodically go to make a comment, tag a friend, or simply click the like icon. Use the search function to find new local artisans and interact with them. If you let the apps passively feed you whatever they want it will be like listening to pop radio: you’ll get a watered-down stream of high-production mush. To be truly engaged in our online world, to find authenticity and heart in our social media, we need to continue to actively push through the bright shiny trinkets to the deeper, richer things below. It’s time consuming, but we are there anyways getting fed a stream of useless ‘watch til the end’ videos, right?

This season, please continue to support your local artist community: dig deep, shop local, shop small, shop handmade, shop authentic, shop sustainable. When you venture online, stay engaged, and stay active. I can tell you from experience those small choices can be the difference maker for a local artisan living in a resort town. Have a happy holiday.

The Watering Tree

by Sadie Rosgen

The Watering Tree

Christmas time was a special time for my brother and I. Jake was younger, endlessly curious, and always ready for action. He hung on every word I spoke and loved everything I loved for a time. One year he penned a loving letter to Santa asking for a guitar, a pic, and a pizza! Mom and I laughed so hard that year and on Christmas day when Jaker dawned his prized cowboy hat and boots, sat down with his guitar and pic while the pizza bubbled in the oven, I knew that all of the Christmas magic was held in the capable hands of my amazing mother. For us, it was never about the amount of presents or the extravagance of the season. It was about being present, having great food to enjoy, and creating a foundation of memories that we all share. No matter your traditions or faith, I am wishing you the very best that the holidays have to offer.

By Sadie Rosgen 1989

just us three all together under the watering tree.

Hanging gingerbread ornaments sleeping downstairs, people dropping by

I don’t remember what I got but I know how it feels to want everything you have.

A turkey and a bottle of gingerale caramel chocolates her laugh in bluejeans surrendered on the couch.

Frosted faces red from outside we had time eachother.

A guitar, a pic, and a pizza.

Cyrano de Bergerac, duelist, soldier and poet, was first introduced to the world in 1897 in a play by Edmond Rostand. The play focuses on de Bergerac, a gallant cavalier with an unusually large nose, who is deeply in love with his best friend, Roxanne, but is so crippled by his own self-loathing that he can’t bring himself to talk to her about his feelings and eventually ends up helping Christian, a handsome, inarticulate soldier to win her heart.

Cyrano’s story has touched the hearts of many people and has been adapted to film many times. Among those to play Cyrano on the silver screen were José Ferrer (1950), Christopher Plummer (1962), Gérard Depardieu (1990) and Kevin Kline (2008). The most memorable modern version is 1987’s Roxanne. Written by and starring a 41-year-old Steve Martin the film also starred Daryl Hannah. The principal character is not a French Army cadet but is instead a small-town fireman named Charlie “C.D.” Bales.

The most recent film to take a crack at interpreting Edmond Rostand’s tale of swashbuckling and unrequited love is Cyrano, a 2021 musical directed by Joe Wright, with a screenplay by Erica Schmidt. It is based on Schmidt’s 2018 stage musical of the same name. The film stars Peter Dinklage, Haley Bennett, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Ben Mendelsohn.

Dinklage, who at this point is probably best known for playing acerbic nobleman Tyrion Lannister in HBO’s Game of Thrones, first came to public notice playing the train obsessed Finbarr McBride in Tom McCarthy’s excellent independent film The Station Master back in 2003. He is excellent at playing deeply intelligent, unbelievably bitter loners and outcasts, and that is exactly what he is called on to do here. His

Cyrano

by ANDREW VALLANCE

run in Los Angeles, and then a wide theatrical release in the United States and the United Kingdom in February 2022. The film was a box office disappointment, grossing $6.4 million on a $30 million budget. However, it received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the soundtrack and Dinklage’s and Bennett’s performances. It was nominated for several awards, including Best Motion Picture and Best Actor at the 79th Golden Globe Awards, four nominations at the 75th British Academy Film Awards and a Best Costume Design nod at the 94th Academy Awards.

This movie is absolutely worth a look. Two thumbs up.

Cyrano may not be as misanthropic as Tyrion, Cyrano de Bergerac is, after all, a hero and a fundamentally decent person, but there is still a great deal of angst and darkness in the character.

Ben Mendelson (Star Wars: Rogue One, Animal Kingdom) stars as the movie’s villain. Hailey Bennett (Hillbilly Elegy, Swallow) plays Roxanne, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. (Luce, Waves, It Comes at Night) is Christian.

Joe Wright is known for directing great films like Atonement, The Soloist, Anna Karenina and The Woman in the Window. In this instance he has directed a terrific film which touched me to the point of tears. He is an extremely talented artist.

The songs in Cyrano are also excellent. Written by the rock band The National, they are both mournful and touching, dealing with a great deal of introspection, as opposed to traditional show tunes which tend to be loud declarations of love, grief and anger.

Cyrano had its world premiere in September 2021, had a one-week theatrical

Small Business Holiday Dinner

Saturday December 17

The perfect solution for a small business, we do all the work!

Private Parties (30-70 people)

Plated or buffet style

Available dates until Dec 18

Restaurant open 9am-3pm only: until Dec 18

Regular open hours 9am-9pm: starting Dec 19

To book a spot or for all enquiries email: events@enjoyfernie.com

Gayle Vallance

by KRISTA TURCASSO

I was at a meeting this fall where I learned there are 14 homeless people living in the Elk Valley. While it was shocking, it was also believable. Not only has it become more visible, the housing crisis has been in the spotlight in the news, political campaigns, and in discussions around many tables across the province. But as we are all learning, there is no easy or one solution.

We also have been witnessing the North End Court being developed over the last year, an affordable housing project orchestrated by the Fernie Family Housing Society with numerous partnerships, grant applications and donors on board to support the efforts to create additional affordable housing in our community.

Gayle Vallance has been with Fernie Family Housing since its inception. Originally from Michel, Gayle enjoyed the experience of growing up in a small town.

“You knew pretty much everybody - it was supportive and cooperative. Growing up in a small town like that you know the importance of making a contribution.You can’t separate yourself from it,” she tells me.

After graduating, Gayle studied education at UBC and returned to the valley to teach. The Sparwood Highschool was closed at the time, so she taught in Fernie which is where she met her soon-to-be husband, Jimmy. After a few years, the couple moved to Scotland, where Gayle realized she was more comfortable in Canada and, “I just wanted to farm.” Prior to leaving Fernie, Gayle and Jimmy had purchased an acreage on Cokato Road. “It was the big draw for me,” Gayle adds. “We moved back in 1974 and Jimmy started building the house, we built up the live stock and farmed for 45

years.” They sold their last animals just last summer.

The couple raised a family, and Gayle taught on and off but quit teaching in 1981 when her son Andrew was born as he had special needs.

“And that was mainly the reason I got into affordable housing. I was part of the Elk Valley Society for Community Living and got to know the self-advocates – adults with developmental delays. We became aware of how lacking Fernie was for suitable housing for these people. The society called a meeting with the City, the Women’s Resource Centre (WRC), and mental health authorities and developed

a plan. Our main focus was to support people with disabilities, WRC for women in transition, and through this the Fernie Family Housing Society was formed– in 2000.”

The New Horizons Village was the result of this collaboration, which was completed in 2001.

“Of course, we were looking around for other ventures,” Gayle tells me. “Tom Uphill came up for sale and we negotiated the purchase and redeveloped that into apartments for seniors and people with disabilities.”

Having been involved in housing for nearly 25 years, Gayle has recognized that there

Krista Turcasso Photo

has always been a concern about the lack of affordable housing in Fernie but that it has been growing in severity.

“There is more demand, and we get inquiries regularly,” she says. “Our latest project is of course the North End Court. We were lucky when we purchased the Tom Uphill, as it included that acre of land. We’ve been working on it for years, and while we are delayed, we ae really hoping it’s ready for occupation in May of 2023.”

Currently the society is encouraging people to apply, via the BC Housing Registry.

“The goal is to support people with the greatest financial need,” she says. “There are 35 units in the apartment blocks that are low end market rents. The row houses are subsidized rents through BC Housing, to support lower income families.”

So, what are low market rents? Every five years a study is done to see what units are renting for. Those at the lowest end are what Fernie Family Housing can charge for its low-end market rental units, which represent a portion of the units available at New Horizon and North End Court.

While North End Court is still under construction, they are already beginning to plan for their next project.

“Typically, it takes a minimum of three years for these planning phases,” Gayle says. “The renovation of Tom Uphill is next, which is a major project that includes an energy assessment, new roof, new Make Up Air units, window replacements, and hopefully solar panels.You might think it’s a simple process, but it is very complicated.”

Another thing being talked about across the province is volunteer burnout, and it’s something Gayle admits she thinks about all of the time.

“It can be hard to find people who are interested, willing and prepared to do the work. It is challenging being a volunteer with an organization, you have to have

thick skin, broad shoulders, and can’t take criticism personally. That’s been my philosophy. If there is a criticism, lay it out and we’ll see if it’s possible. If it’s not, and the individual doesn’t want to do the work, maybe it won’t get done.You have to recognize your limitations because if you get driven into the ground, who is there to take it on?” she says. “We don’t have the culture of volunteering that we used to have. Just look at the service clubs – where are all the members? The Elk Valley Society for Community Living will disappear, because there is no membership. I don’t blame young families – both parents having to work full time now to be able to pay the rent – you can’t expect them to go out to meetings… when they are home they just can’t do it anymore.”

In her opinion, you don’t need talent you just need people who want to do the work. They do have a general manager, but she is hoping to phase out so they are looking for an assistant who would work towards filling the general manager role. Additionally, the society is working on their succession plan as part of their governance, to make it an easier transition for new board members.

While they continue to tackle big projects, and work on the organization internally, they are also keeping their eyes open to possibilities. The biggest being land.

“If we were offered land to lease by the City again, like New Horizons, we would look at that favourably. Of course, it comes down to who is on the board, and who will do the work.”

December is a great time to set an intention to support your community. If you are interested in learning more about Fernie Family Housing, there are many ways to get involved and support. For example, they are currently looking for someone to build a website. Contact FFHS@telus.net with any questions.

Thank you, Gayle and the Fernie Family Housing team for your work and dedication.

1. When did you first arrive in the Elk Valley and what brought you here?

I was born in Michel in 1943.

2. Who did you first meet/remember knowing?

Members of my family, who were always kind and encouraging.

3. Do you remember your first general impression of the Elk Valley?

The freedom of growing up in a small community.

4. What keeps you here?

Family and friends, and the general attractiveness of the City of Fernie.

5. Do you have a favourite pastime?

Spinning, weaving, felting, dyeing

6. What time of the year do you love most and why?

I love the spring because after a long cold winter, spring offers so much promise.

7. Where do you see or hope to see the Elk Valley in five years?

I would like to see affordable housing available to all citizens of Fernie and the Elk Valley.

8. How do you start your day or what is one of your daily rituals?

A 2km walk along Cokato Road, then work in the garden (in spring and summer) or at my fiber arts (fall and winter).

9. Tell us something people might be surprised to learn about you.

I don’t do stress.

10. Quote to live by: Always look forward, never back.

MONTHLY EVENTS

Thursday 1.12.2022

Co-Conspirators Live @ The Kodiak Lounge Friday 2.12.2022

Fernie Ambassador Program @ College of the Rockies

Holiday Paint Night with Sue Hanlon @ The Arts Station

Tony Bell Live @ Loaf Pop Up Local Artisan Christmas Market @ The Legion

Saturday 3.12.2022

Opening Day (Tentative) @ Fernie Alpine Resort

Ghostrider Hockey Game vs Golden @ Fernie Memorial Arena.

Ghostrider Ticket and Pint Specials @ The Pub and Kodiak Lounge

BigTreesoftheInlandTemperateForestsof

British Columbia by Terry Nelson Book Launch

@ Fernie Museum, 7pm Monday 5.12.2022

Intermediate Intensive Pottery Wheel Course @ The Arts Station Tuesday 6.12.2022

Ghostrider Hockey Game vs Columbia Valley @ Fernie Memorial Arena

Ghostrider Ticket and Pint Specials @ The Pub and Kodiak Lounge

Fernie Potters Guild: Stamps and Rollers @ The Arts Station Wednesday 7.12.2022

Pottery Wine and Wheel @ The Arts Station Friday 9.12.2022

Grinch Tree Workshop @ Stemhouse Floral Studio Moontricks Live @ The Northern Kevin Smith Live @ Loaf Saturday 10.12.2022

The Wrath of Osiris: A 1920s Mystery @ Fernie Museum

Ghostrider Hockey Game vs Revelstoke @ Fernie Memorial Arena

Ghostrider Ticket and Pint Specials @ The Pub and Kodiak Lounge

Naked by the Fire Live @ Kodiak Lounge Sunday 11.12.2022

Jaffary Holiday Kickoff @ Jaffray Monday 12.12.2022

City Council Meeting @ City Hall Thursday 15.12.2022

Holiday Centerpiece Class @ Stemhouse Floral Studio

Blue Wranglers Live @ The Arts Station Friday 16.12.2022

Gallery Opening: Second Skin by the Fernie Spinners and Weavers Guild @ Fernie Museum Fernie and Cranbrook Community Choirs Christmas Concert @ Fernie Catholic Church Maddisun Live @ Kodiak Lounge

EVENTS CALENDAR

Sami Valavaara Live @ Loaf Saturday 17.12.2022

Stay up to date by visiting FernieFix.com/events. Send your events to krista@clarismedia.com for inclusion!

WEDNESDAYS

My Baby and Me @ 551 1st Ave Upstairs, 9:30am

Stocking Stuffer Craft Fair @ Fernie Community Centre

Relief Committee Live @ Fernie Legion Small Business Holiday Dinner @ The Bridge Bistro

Die Hard @ Vogue Theatre Monday 19.12.2022

Committee of the Whole Meeting @ City Hall Friday 23.12.2022

Ski with Santa @ Fernie Alpine Resort Just Rollie Live @ Loaf Saturday 24.12.2022

Ski with Santa @ Fernie Alpine Resort Wednesday 28.12.2022

Ghostrider Hockey Game vs Kimberley @ Fernie Memorial Arena

Ghostrider Ticket and Pint Specials @ The Pub and Kodiak Lounge Thursday 29.12.2022

Gallery Opening: Beth Gallup @ The Arts Station Friday 30.12.2022

Lani Folkard Live @ Loaf Holiday Private Pottery Party @ The Arts Station Saturday 31.12.2022

Family NYE @ Fernie Alpine Resort Griz Bar NYE Party @ Fernie Alpine Resort New Year’s Karaoke Party @ Kodiak Lounge New Year’s Eve Party @ The Pub

WEEKLY EVENTS

MONDAYS

Les Tiguidous French activities for toddlers (0-5yo) 10:30am @ the Cokato Park playground Club All Play – Fernie Pickleball @ Max Turyk Courts, 8:30-10:30am

Kindergym @ Fernie Family Centre, 10am Le Club Baguette Junior @ Rotary Park, outdoor activities and games in French ages 7-12, 3:30pm

Jam Night @ Kodiak Lounge, 9pm Pool Tourney Night @ The Pub Educational Cannabis Presentation @ Earth’s Own Naturals

TUESDAYS

Seniors Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre, 11:15am

Fernie Options for Sexual Health Clinic Open @ Elk Valley Hospital, by appointment, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of month only

Parent and Tot Funtime @ Fernie Family Centre, 9:30am Burger and Beer Night @ The Northern Wing Night @ The Pub Pasta Tuesdays @ Bramasole Visual Art, Potters and Community Choir @ The Arts Station Wheel of Karaoke @ The Legion

CBAL/FHL Story Time @ Fernie Heritage Library, 11am

Club All Play – Fernie Pickleball @ Max Turyk Courts, 8:30-10:30am

Seniors Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre, 11:15am Trivia @ Fernie Hotel All Night Happy Hour @ Bramasole

THURSDAYS

Kids Café @ Mountainside Church, 9:30am Kindergym @ Fernie Family Centre, 10am

Seniors Walking Program @ Fernie Community Centre, 11:15am Bellies to Babies @ Zoom, 2pm

Club Baguette Junior French tutoring and activities 3pm @ Isabella Dickens library Club Baguette Adults learn and converse in French for adults 7pm @ Zoom Pub Team Trivia @ The Pub

Open Mic Night @ Fernie Distillers, 7pm Run Club @ Stag Leap Drop in Euchre and Crib @ The Legion Four-Course Fondue Dinner @ Loaf Karaoke @ Kodiak Lounge, 9pm

FRIDAYS

Club All Play – Fernie Pickleball @ Max Turyk Courts, 8:30-10:30am

Storytime (ages 0-5) @ Fernie Heritage Library

Fish and Chips @ The Pub

Fish and Chips Take Away @ Fernie Hotel, 4pm Meat Draw @ The Fernie Club Cre8 @ The Arts Station Open Mic Night @ Fernie Distillers, 7pm Big Red Fridays @ Bramasole Live Music @ Loaf SATURDAYS

Meat Draw @ The Legion Chicken Parmie Special @ The Pub SUNDAYS

Fernie Netball @ Fernie Community Centre, 6pm

Four-Course Fondue Dinner @ Loaf Jam Night @ The Fernie Taphouse Roast Dinner Special, and free pool after 7pm @ The Pub

HAPPY HOURS

Bramasole – 4-6pm daily and Wed Eve

Fernie Distillers – 4-6pm Wed – Sun Fernie Taphouse – 4-6pm Daily

The Northern – 4-6pm Daily

Kodiak Lounge – 4-7pm Fridays

The Pub – 4-6 pm Daily

The Holidays: Stress or Success

by MARIANNE AGNEW

As we navigate through the journey of life there are circumstances, including aging parents, illnesses or disability in the family that may take precedence. The unpaid family member who devotes themselves to taking care of the multiple medical concerns of their loved ones, is the caregiver.

The f amily caregiver is often sandwiched between looking after the needs of their aging parents, spouse or friend, while still wanting to create holiday memories with their busy children or grandchildren.

Caregiving is stressful on so many levels, and when you add the expectations and demands of the holidays to this messy stew, the pot can really boil over. It is easy to become physically and emotionally overwhelmed as you try to create holidays to remember for everyone in the family. Anticipatory grief that this may be Grandma’s last Christmas, along with mourning for family members who have passed, is also heightened during these times of traditional family celebrations.

I have experienced all of these scenarios, and I am a serial over-achiever. I want to do it all! I believe I can put on my cape and make the holidays perfect for everyone, but I realize that my personal expectations are just not attainable. If I spread myself that thin, I am likely to be the one that suffers the most, and my holiday dream limps off sadly and curls up in a corner. I am offering the following tips that have been suggested for caregivers like me to not only survive, but more importantly, to enjoy this time of holiday celebration.

Be Realistic

Practice the KISS method. Keep it Simple Silly!

Make your “To Do” list and then cut it in half. Just because you have always done it, or someone is expecting it, doesn’t mean you have to do it this year. Practice saying NO for demands upon your time.

Be Kind to Yourself

Make time to do things that bring you joy. Ten minutes to get outside, breathe, meditate, read, create, exercise, or just sit will make a difference. Take time to clear your mind, get enough sleep, and try to keep alcohol and caffeine to a minimum.

Take Shortcuts

Contrary to popular opinion, money is a very thoughtful gift! Go to the bakery for cookies or ask friends to share. Accept all offers of help. Practice saying YES to all offers, and then let them do it without you being involved.

Prioritize

Take some time to reflect on your priorities and write them down. What is most important to you?

Allow Time to Grieve

Share it with people you trust. Give yourself permission to feel your emotions.

Keep Yourself Safe

This isn’t the time to hash out frustrations or bigger issues with family members. Do your best to limit time with family members who are critical or unsupportive of your caregiving.

Laugh!

Find time for humour, watch funny Christmas shows, build crazy snowmen, make snow angels, doodle ridiculous cartoons. Laughter really is the best medicine.

All This Will Pass

It may be like a kidney stone, but it will pass. Be mindful of the present and try to enjoy each moment.

Practice Gratitude

Even in the toughest times we can find things to be grateful for, and gratitude is a great stress reliever. Try counting your blessings as you are going to sleep and see if it helps you to wake up with a positive attitude.

Get Support

Lean on a trusted friend or relative. Call the Caregivers Network for East Kootenay Seniors toll free line. Join a support group in person or online.

The Elk Valley Caregiver support group meets in Fernie at Mugshots the 4th Wednesday of the month at 3:15pm. The toll-free line is private and confidential.

Reac h out, you are not alone. For support or more info: caregiversnetworkek.com

Info@caregiversnetworkek.com Toll-free: 1-877-489-7044. Facebook: Caregivers Network for East Kootenay Seniors

Submitted Photo

Happy Holidays

From all of us at Teck, we wish you and your loved ones a safe and healthy holiday season.

Beavers in Winter

by SYLVIA AYERS, illustrated by SARAH PULLEN

Beaver activity creates wetlands which are among the most biologically productive ecosystems in the world? They increase plant, bird, and aquatic life, and improve water quality for thousands of species.

In order to breathe fresh air beavers do not apply mud to the peak of the lodge, creating a ventilation shaft. On a very cold winter day, look closely and you may see the beaver’s breath escaping from this chimney-like peak, or even hear the murmurs of the beaver family inside!

Did you know...

Beavers do not hibernate, they just hunker down. Their lodges are mostly submerged but have a large dry den above water where their body heat keeps them warm enough to survive the cold season. Maybe you have seen a lodge or two in the Annex Park pond or beside Maiden Lake?

They have excellent senses of hearing and smell. When swimming a protective transparent membrane covers their eyes, and flaps close to keep water out of their nostrils and ears. Also, behind their incisors they have inner lips that allow them to carry sticks in without getting a mouthful of water.

Beavers eat fresh leaves, twigs, stems, and bark and while they chew on any tree, they really like alder, aspen, birch, cottonwood, maple, poplar and willow. In the fall they collect sticks underwater so that once the pond freezes, they swim under the ice for a stick to nibble on!

Resources

beaversolutions.com/beaver-facts-education/beaver-behavior-and-biology/ sarett.org/2016/01/06/nature-notebook-beaver-and-muskrat-coexistence/

Beaver fur consists of short fine hairs for warmth and longer hairs for waterproofing. They need to groom daily to keep it waterproof, and frequently groom each other’s fur – a great social activity!

As winter approaches, our Snow School family comes together again. For me, this is a magical time of the year, as I get to reconnect with all the members of our Snow School, both old and new.

What brings us all together, and what we all share, is a passion for teaching, and spending time with our guests. We love to share what we know about our chosen profession, be it alpine skiing, snowboarding or cross-country skiing.

Our Snow School is a very diverse group of individuals, from young to old and from very experienced to the new pros starting out on their careers, but what we have in common is our love of the outdoors, the mountains, the fresh air and the health of what that brings to our lives. This is what we want to share with everyone.

We love what we do, we work every day to be the best that we can be, not just as instructors, but as ambassadors of our sport. We work together to share insights into sport technology, technical updates and applications. We spend time together discussing what that means, developing our own skills, and how we can help our guests have the best experience possible. This covers a very broad scope, from a very general resort experience, to skill development sessions, to personalized training.

The depth of knowledge and experience in our Snow School pros is amazing! There are pros who have been with us for 30+ years, they know the mountain inside and out, and on the worst day, can find the best the mountain has to offer. We also have those pros who are the best at entertaining young skiers or snowboarders.

Who We Are

by WENDY READE

For us, Snow School and teaching is a way of life, it is who we are. We continue to learn and develop every day, to be the best that we can be. This is what keeps us in it, and we hope we can share this passion with anyone and everyone! That is what this column will highlight throughout the season – the unique stories and work of the Winter Sport School and the people who make it what it is.

Fernie Alpine Resort Photo

“We love what we do, we work every day to be the best that we can be, not just as instructors, but as ambassadors of our sport.”

It’s a Dog Meets Dog World

by VALERIE BARRY

It’s a social time of year! It’s a time to come together with friends and family and enjoy all the camaraderie and the things that make this time of year special to you. Dogs are social creatures too and, like us, seek each other out for companionship.

Also like us, there are socially acceptable and unacceptable ways for them to interact. Interestingly, some of the things that cause us social discomfort are similar for dogs. No one likes the “close talker,” the “space invader,” the “hugger, mugger” or the “stalker!”

In dogs, these behaviours would be:

• Barking in the f ace of another dog.

• Coming in f ast and close and lingering waaay too long.

• Jumping on the head, butt or shoulders of another dog.

• Star ing at an approaching dog – even sitting, crouching, or lying down while staring.

Dog’s social skills are a product of the environment they’re raised in, the early experiences they have and, to some degree, their genetics. Once they come into our care, we need to continue their social training. Understanding basic dog behaviour and body language can make a world of difference.

The “3 Second Rule”

It is acceptable and easily tolerable for a dog to enter the personal space of an unknown dog for 3 seconds. Any longer becomes quickly invasive. Dogs who are less confident, young or who have had negative experiences can quickly become uncomfortable and lash out defensively when greetings last longer.

Go to any dog park or busy trail, and you will see this played out. There’s an initial greeting, usually a sniff to face or butt. If it lasts longer than 3 seconds, you can see each dog begin to “get bigger” – they get still, stand taller, tails get higher. Often one dog disengages, and nothing happens. Sometimes, though, there is a brief and sudden explosion. Despite what it looks like, the explosion is intended to prevent conflict, not to start a fight – they want their space back.

Socially skilled dogs know how to defuse these situations. These dogs will “change the picture” to lessen tension. They will:

• Feign sudden and intense interest in something else,

• Develop an itch and begin scratching,

• Drop their noses to the ground to investigate a smell,

• Shake off or yawn widely while gazing off into the distance,

• Drop into a play bow to invite a more playful interaction, or

• Loosen their body language and trot casually off.

Can you think of human equivalents to these strategies?

Right from puppyhood, it’s important to teach your dog to easily disengage from another dog and return to you.

This might be a recall, a hand target, coming to heel – there are many options to use. As they mature and their skills develop, they will learn strategies of their own.

The best reward for disengagement is to offer another opportunity to greet. Usually after 2 or 3 quick meet and greets, most dogs will indicate their interest in each other – play or simply move on.

Be proactive, do some purposeful training and keep all those “get togethers” fun!

Submitted Photo

Skier: Brett Galbraith – Ski Base Management Team

Photo: @philipforsey

Health and Lifestyle SLOW TRAVEL

Holiday Travel Tips

by PATRICK ROBERTSON

December and January are festive times to celebrate our commitment to the ones we love. When we join as a community to share our time and resources, we can make the holidays wonderful for everyone.

During the holiday season, family and friends come together to share love and good cheer. For many that means distant travel. There are a lot of things that you can do to make travel easier on yourself.

Don’t forget, there are still pandemic restrictions in place. Research COVID restrictions for the area before you go.You need to be up-to-date on the changing travel restrictions. If not, you may not be allowed entry, or it may delay your travel and cost you extra money.

Book your transportation as soon as possible. Rates go up closer to the holidays and seats rapidly disappear. A one-day delay could cost hundreds of dollars.

Take the earliest flight. When delays occur, they compound quickly through the course of the day. One delayed flight can cause another flight to be delayed resulting in hundreds of delays and cancellations with people becoming stranded in airports.

Plan to be where you are going three or four days before and after the holiday. The busiest travel days of 2022 are going to be December 22 and 23 and December 26 and 27.

These busy days affect road travel as well, with highways filling up and people hurrying to get to their destinations. A large amount of impatient people distracted by a car full of passengers driving in winter conditions is a recipe for disaster. Make sure you have an up-to-date road side assistance membership and check conditions before heading out.

Have a plan B and plan C for travel interruptions. Think of it as your sanity insurance. If you are stuck in the airport, what are you going to do? If you are stranded on the highway, what are you going to do?

Always carry high calorie snacks with you. Nuts, fruit, and sandwiches are all very portable and will be a blessing when stranded. Consider stocking your car with warm blankets and water. I always carry an empty steel water container. I have it with me all the time. I empty it in the checkin washroom and carry it empty through security then fill it up in the waiting area washroom. Throw in a couple of ice cubes from one of the fast food places and you have delicious cold water for hours.

Bring things to keep yourself occupied, such as a book - I have spent many enjoyable hours lost in a book while waiting in airports. Now people have their smart phones and tablets to watch movies, play games, read books, keep up with

current news, use social media, and do work. Be respectful of those around you, and please use your earphones.

Be polite and have empathy. Everybody is going through the same stressful situation. A smile is free and so rewarding to see the other person’s face brighten up. Talk calmly and be kind with all the workers you talk to. Try to make your time with them pleasant and reassuring.

Order your presents online or at local stores where you are visiting and have them delivered to where you are staying - you can even have them gift wrapped! But it is nice to get there a few days early and wrap them yourself. A good trend is to give experiences instead of things. Last year I was given a gift certificate to Island Lake Lodge that I used for date night. I can still remember it clearly.

As we all come together over this holiday season, be safe and spread the love.

Skating Annex Pond| Submitted Photo

Fernie Office

592-2nd Avenue

P.O. Box 369 Fernie, B.C. V0B 1M0

T: (250) 423-4497

F: (250) 423-6714

Sparwood Office (By

119 Centennial Square Sparwood, B.C.

T: (250) 425-7216

F: (250) 425-0400 www.majicpurdy.com

George S. Majic, Q.C. (d. 2003) • Glen A. Purdy, K.C. Caeli H. MacPherson, JD

Improving Relationships, Starting with You

by TYLA CHARBONNEAU

“Hi, it’s me. I’m the problem, it’s me.” Taylor Swift.

This line seems to be everywhere right now, and it is catchy! It sticks in your head and plays on repeat. This holiday season as we come together with our friends and family, there will inevitably be some stress and interpersonal conflict to navigate. Perhaps we should take Ms. Swift’s musical advice: Instead of venting to our friends about the behaviours of others we could grab a cup of hot chocolate and engage in self-reflection or journal writing about ourselves.

One of the most common reasons individuals discontinue therapy is because they quickly realize the work is internal rather than external. It is so much easier to sit and complain about everyone else. Accountability takes work, it is also where the most growth and healing occurs. I saw a meme once that said, “I go to therapy to deal with those who don’t.” It did not sit well with me. Therapy is for you, for you to figure out what triggers your behaviours, why you are attracted to others who may cause you harm or to act in unhealthy ways you do not like. It is somewhat natural to blame others for the discomfort in your life. The reality is your circumstance will not change or improve until you take a good look at yourself and understand the way you show up with others. Self-reflection requires you to look at your own triggers, negative core beliefs, and responses to the trauma of your childhood or previous relationships. Going to therapy, or engaging in self- help, cannot change anyone in your life, except you. Perhaps even more importantly you cannot do the emotional work for others, save yourself the heartache and spend that energy on you.

I need to be really honest with you, this work is incredibly painful and difficult. As humans we go to great lengths to avoid feelings. We run, eat, bike, drink, work too hard, keep ourselves really busy to avoid feeling what we need to. However, to feel, is the only way through it. And man is feels awful, but then it feels really good after. I promise.

Submitted Photo

something you do not like, but if you are not calmly reacting, then you need to look at your own triggers. After your initial focus on the other person’s behaviour stop and try the following:

1. Take a deep breath and try to find relaxation in your body, shake it out, find some calm.

2. Ask yourself, what are my triggers in this situation? What is going on for me? Helpful hint, this is likely a core belief being triggered and using the words “I am…” can help. For example, the root of the conflict might be that you are not feeling loved or liked by others, or not enough of a friend, partner, or parent.

3. Once you know what is going on for you offer yourself some self-compassion. What would you say to a friend in a similar situation, how would you comfort them? Offer these same kind words to yourself. You can also engage in a self-soothing activity, something that makes you feel comforted.

4. If you want to talk through the issue with the other person focus on you and not their behaviours. Be honest about what is going on for you instead of trying to get them to change their behaviour. Using statements like I feel…, and the story I am telling myself… may help the other person have a greater sense of empathy for you and they will likely be less defensive, thus hopefully promoting a healthy conversation.

The holiday season really is about coming together, and in order to do so in a healthy way we need to do the hard work to understand ourselves within our relationships. Celebrate you this holiday season through a gift of self-awareness and accountability.

This holiday season, and in life in general, if you find yourself frustrated with others or your emotions elevated, take a moment and turn inward. If you are angry or want to lash out, then it is about you. The other person may have done

The content provided in this article is for information purposes only. It is not meant as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you find yourself in distress, please reach out to your local physician who can provide mental health resources in your community.

“It is somewhat natural to blame others for the discomfort in your life. The reality is your circumstance will not change or improve until you take a good look at yourself and understand the way you show up with others.”

Mexican Cell

by KEVIN MCISAAC

If you’re travelling to Mexico this winter (and I hope you are) and you want to use your phone there, it couldn’t be easier. You can order a SIM card from a Mexican carrier online, but it is much easier to do once you get there. Walk into any OXXO (the Mexican equivalent of 7-11 and even more common) and you can be setup with a new SIM card and an extremely good call and data plan in five minutes.You can also top up your plan here if you use up your data or time out your plan

I’m assuming here that you have limited or no Spanish. If you do, it’ll be even easier.

The first thing is that the people working in the OXXO will almost certainly refer to the SIM as “chip.” Point at your phone and say “chip” and they’ll know exactly what you want. OXXO staff do dozens of these a day. Now say Telcel, so they’ll know which carrier. There are two others, but Telcel is the cheapest and has the broadest coverage by far.

The price for the SIM varies a bit. I paid $150 pesos. They use the dollar sign for pesos in Mexico. At the time the rate was about 15 pesos to 1 Canadian dollar, so the cost for the chip was about $10 CAD.

They’ll give you a folded business card sized card with a plastic card inside. The plastic card holds your SIM. The card has different sizes of cutouts. When you’re ready to install it, power off your phone, remove the SIM from your phone, and break out the new SIM using the same size cutout as your current SIM. DON’T LOSE YOUR OLD SIM!

On the outside of the card is a sticker with your new phone number. (Take a picture of the card in case you lose it.You’ll need

the number.) I stuck my old SIM into the now empty spot on the card and kept it in my wallet.You’ll need it when you come back to Canada. (Although interestingly enough, my Telcel SIM still worked when I arrived in Canada.)

Typically when you buy the chip, you’ll also buy a plan from the clerk at OXXO too. If so, they’ll bring up a screen that shows you prices in pesos and ask you to pick one. I found $200 with 3 Gb was good. Just point at one that’s around what you want to spend. Get the Paquete Amigo Sin Límite (Amigo Unlimited Friend.) They’ll activate it using your new Mexican phone number.

The details of the plan I’m quoting were what was included at the time I purchased in November 2022. All of this is subject to change of course.

Telcel Unlimited “Amigo” plans get you a certain amount of data and unlimited free North America wide calling and texting. That’s right you can call and text home to

Canada for free. Also, social media use on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp usage does not count against your data usage.

$200 pesos got me 3Gb of data or 30 days, whichever comes first.You’ll receive text messages from Telcel when you get low on data or near the end of your plan.

To add to your plan you can go back to the OXXO and say, “recarga por favor” (recharge please). They’ll pull up the same screen as before and ask you how much. They’ll need your phone number.

Alternatively, you can easily recharge online at padnet.telcel.com/cc/slr.

Note that to recharge online you need to be on the Telcel network when you browse there using the browser on your phone. It won’t work if you’re using wifi at the time.

Once there, you’ll get a similar screen to what you saw at the OXXO. Pick your plan, enter credit card details, (don’t forget to make sure you are on Telcel.com with the little lock icon) and voila. Within a minute you should receive an SMS text message informing you of your new plan.

Finally, some apps on your phone such as Messenger and WhatsApp will ask you which number you want to use. I said to use my Canada number. In WhatsApp I allowed receiving from both and sending from my Canada number.You’ll see a message from WhatsApp that your Canada number will expire on your phone.You will need to reverify your Canada number occasionally. This will mean reinstalling your Canadian SIM card.You can’t do it from Telcel.

Stock Photo

December 2022

by ASHLEY KRISTINA

December begins with the autumn Sun still moving in the sky with Venus and Mercury, travelling through the sign of Sagittarius while retrograde Mars is in Gemini, forming an opposition. This is a strange opposition as Mars, the planet of doing, is retrograde so has an aspect of notdoing and it’s in the bipolar sign of Gemini meaning a propensity to switch! It’s a time with many shifts and surprises occurring quickly, and also a time of karma and love as Saturn conjuncts the asteroid Valentine.

December 7 brings the full moon just before midnight, with the moon and Mars retrograde both sitting at 16º of Gemini.

We are in a perfect geometrical pattern of the planets, a special time as Mars can only be opposite to the Sun when it’s in retrograde.

December 21 marks the Winter Solstice as the Sun enters the sign of Capricorn and the longest night is upon the northern

hemisphere. December 23 is the new moon, occurring at 3am with the Sun and the Moon sitting at 1º Capricorn conjunct asteroid Pholus, and continuing to travel in the sky with Venus, Mercury and Pluto. On this day, Chiron is also direct after many months of inward navigation. We felt it while it travelled retrograde through Aries and now that it’s direct, we revisit these spaces of deep wounds that may show outwardly instead of just being felt internally.

Mercury goes retrograde in Capricorn December 29 until January 18, 2023 and it’s always a good time to pay attention to possible (mis)communication. December 31 ends with the Sun conjunct Pholus and Venus conjunct retrograde Mercury and Pluto.

Aries

Happy Holidays

We are celebrating World Sight Day on Oct. 13

You’re ruling planet, Mars, is travelling in retrograde opposite to the Sun,Venus and Mercury so this can be felt as tension and like your actions are not matching your heart-felt truth. A month of development and self-realization.

Taurus

in support of optometry charities worldwide. Join us in supporting this cause all month!

Our office will be closed December 23 at 12pm, reopening on January 2. Be sure to take advantage of your benefits before the end of the year!

www.givingsight.org

rmoptometry.ca

FERNIE 250-423-4467

BLAIRMORE 403-562-7144 ELKFORD 250-865-2022

There is a big theme of relationships this month for everyone however we are in the Taurus-Scorpio eclipse this year so life is changing and it can be a confusing time. Trusting self and finding a spiritual practice is recommended.

Gemini

A great time for introspection: why do you do what you do? The Sun,Venus and Mercury travel through your 7th house of partnership yet your actions may oppose this love potential. Why?

“It’s a time with many shifts and surprises occurring quickly, and also a time of karma and love as Saturn conjuncts the asteroid Valentine.”

Cancer

A month of deep healing. A good health and work routine could be very important to this healing work. Internally - you are making a lot of progress and this will show externally in time. Have patience and be kind to yourself.

Leo

A month where creativity, fun and children are of paramount importance! This is also a month to conserve your energy, especially in respect to the community, groups and festivities. Rest to allow for greater resources.

Virgo

Libra

An important month of communication and spiritual knowledge, which do co-exist. A great month to practice yoga, learn an ancient language, travel or read some spiritual or religious texts (and practice them).

Scorpio

Mars is a ruler of Scorpio and its retrograde may feel like a blast from the past. Patience is required alongside your deep introspection. A month of both potent communication and connections and a breaking away from any form of dependency.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Happy birthday to the early-decan Capricorns. A good month to spend time in retrospection to align better with your truth and goals. There has been a lot of transformation for you these last few years. A powerful month for you to feel very supported on your path.

Aquarius

Happy festivity season! As the Sun and Venus travel through your 11th house of community, friends and groups of all kinds, I suspect a lot of celebration! This is also a month of inspiration and dreams.

Pisces

Come Together, Through Your

Lens

Photo by Olivier Thorlakson @Olivier_Thor_Photography

Fernie is the perfect place to spend the holidays together with your family and friends!

The sense of community here is amazing! There’s always someone to help you out if you’re in need.

Photo by: Taylor’d Images Photography @taylord_images_photography

Models: Dayna Deluca, Alanna Laurin (Society Jane Hair Salon)

Faithful friends who are dear to us. Have yourself a very Society Christmas.

Out in the Community:

What is your favourite family tradition, and why?

Andrea Ormandy

Christmas tree hunting. This is quintessential Fernie. Bundled up, hot chocolate, and traipsing through the forest. It is never a perfect tree but is always perfect for us.

Jay Zammit

My favourite holiday tradition is having family and close friends over for turkey dinner followed by games night. Most popular game - Liar’s Dice. This has been a tradition for 23 years.

FYI

It’s finally here – opening day at Fernie Alpine Resort! December 3, we’re hitting the slopes. If you don’t have a pass this year, consider purchasing an RCR Card – you get the 1st, 4th and 7th day free as well as up to $40 savings every time you ski. You can also connect it to your credit card so you can go directly to the lift. Also, if you are in town over the holidays you might get the chance to ski with Santa December 23-24, and of course don’t miss celebrating New Years at the Family Event or at the Griz Bar later that evening.

If you’re keen to get in some arts and culture, this month is packed full of Fernie awesome-ness. On Saturday, December 10 the Fernie Museum is hosting The Wrath of Osiris - a 1920s mystery at the museum. Fernie’s most fashionable and fabulous are invited to enjoy an evening of intrigue and mystery. Continue the entertainment with the Blues Wranglers at the Arts Station, December 15. Interested in attending a workshop? The Arts Station is hosting a Holiday Paint Night Dec 2 and Pottery Wine and Wheel on the 7. Or check out Stemhouse Floral Studio and join their Grinch Tree Workshop on Dec 9 and the Holiday Centerpiece Class on the 15! Additionally, you can make your own ornament for the Edge of the World Christmas Tree, and be entered into a draw for a stocking stuffer prize pack – ornaments must be submitted by Dec 20.

For holiday fun, don’t miss the Jaffray Holiday Kickoff on December 11 which includes the Stuff Your Stocking Run or Walk, a Christmas movie night, and much more. Just under a week later, the Fernie Craft Fair hosts its Stocking Stuffer Craft Fair on December 17, and later that eve the Vogue Theatre is playing what has become an annual anticipated event, and what some may call a controversial Christmas movie (because, is it a Christmas movie?) Die Hard!

All photos from facebook except Die Hard poster

Annie Korver

Baking Christmas cookies!

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