The Jasper Local, November 15, 2021

ALTERNATIVE +

LOCAL + INDEPENDENT

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021 // ISSUE 200

PRIORITIES // Fresh snow brings a fresh perspective. // NICOLE COVEY

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The Jasper Local // ISSUE 200 // MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021

EDITORIAL //

Local Vocal You’re reading the 200th issue of The Jasper Local.

Since May of 2013 we’ve published this newspaper with the aim of reaching and representing Jasper locals— whether they’ve been here for 70 years, or just one season.

Built on a foundation of committed journalism and a desire to tell the stories unique to our community and Jasper National Park, we’ve tried our best to report with the public’s interest in mind, respecting the passions and the people that make Jasper what it is.

We started out small—really small, in fact. Issues 1-28 were published on just a single piece of newsprint, folded in half, then in half again. Those early incarnations typically featured two news items, a feature story and an editorial. In July 2014 we expanded to a format that gave us room for more story-telling and, importantly, more advertisers, and although we stretched ourselves a handful of times by putting out a 16-page paper, for the most part, resources dictated we published the eight-page product that you have in front of you now.

To the chagrin of number counters and those who assume that bigger is always better, I’ve always maintained a philosophy of quality over quantity; I wanted every story we published and every photo we ran to be meaningful, original and considerate. I didn’t want to feature content that our readers wouldn’t find useful or interesting, and I loathed the idea of running press releases or giving space to columnists who, writing under the guise of an opinion piece, simply spouted the platitudes of the powers that be.

You’ll never see an editorial from an elected official in The Jasper Local. To me, that’s not only lazy, but counter to everything that journalism stands for.

For the most part, I think we’ve achieved our editorial goals, although I’d be lying if I said there weren’t gaps— and gaffs—along the way. If there were errors, I’ve tried my best to own up to them and I hope I’ve demonstrated empathy to those whose stories aren’t easy to tell. I’ve done my best to present information accurately and, when required, tried to speak truth to power.

But as long as we’re speaking honestly, I ought to come around to the point of this soliloquy: this is the final print edition of The Jasper Local. It’s hard for me to write, so I expect it’s hard for some of you to read, but after much reflection I know this is the decision I have to make.

Ironically, since we took a pandemic pause, the past 18 months have been the strongest ever for this newspaper— in terms of advertising revenue, audience engagement and strengthening our brand, we’ve been riding high. I feel like my own journalism has levelled-up and the stories we’re telling have more staying power than ever before.

For the most part, I love this gig. I’m creatively satisfied and get a lot of pleasure out of engaging with our readers and the community. Nothing feels better than sending to press a paper that I’m proud of.

But there’s bigger forces at play. As you probably know, the writing is on the wall for print journalism. We don’t have to look far to see the gravestones of onceacclaimed news institutions and as much as the world requires information it can rely upon, since 2008, more than 450 news outlets, including 344 community papers, have closed. I didn’t want to go out like that, but when I look at my two young children and consider the opportunities that they deserve to grow up with, I know that by relying on print revenue to make this business sustainable, I’m swimming upstream.

This isn’t all bad news. I’m not leaving the media industry and I’m not going to quit reporting on important community stories.

While it’s too early to share details, please know that my values, which include a commitment to journalism and Jasper and the people who inhabit it, remain steadfast. I’ve got something in the hopper that I think will not only improve, but hopefully transform, the way local information is shared. I’m more than a little nervous, but I have committed partners whose expertise in the digital space makes me excited to pivot from print and expand my horizons, and our audience.

I’m saddened to close this chapter of my career, but I hope you’ll be there for the next one. Stay well, Jasper, and stay tuned.

The Jasper Local //

BOB COVEY // thejasperlocal@gmail.com

Jasper’s independent alternative newspaper 780.852.9474 • thejasperlocal.com • po box 2046, jasper ab, t0e

Published on the 1st and 15th of each month Editor / Publisher

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// LOCAL DEVELOPMENT

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021 // ISSUE 200 // The Jasper Local // PAGE A3

MOJ’s utility services project on Connaught is paving the way for housing development. // B COVEY

PDAC minutes show MOJ’s support for housing proposal The Jasper Community Housing Corporation was supportive of the release of land for private apartment rental development, according to meeting minutes obtained by The Jasper Local.

At the June 17, 2021 Planning and Development Advisory Committee (PDAC) meeting, proponents of a high density “micro” unit apartment building with a blend of one, two and three bedroom units presented to the committee to justify their rationale for requested variances.

As reported previously by this newspaper, the variances, which were eventually approved, would allow the apartment complex in question to be built over-height, with smaller units and with a 21 per cent decrease of parking stalls than normally required.

Minutes from that meeting show the Jasper Community Housing Corporation’s chair, MOJ CAO Bill Given, spoke in favour of the

release of land to the private market and that the MOJ was working with the proponent to address the parking issue.

“From the JCHC perspective, I can confirm as was presented to the committee that the release of the GB Parcel out to the private sector was a priority of JCHC,” Given was recorded as saying. “The JCHC believes strongly that the municipality and community will benefit from additional housing being developed.”

A year ago, the JCHC brought a proposal forward to PDAC requesting a parking variance for a housing model on Parcel GC (700 block Connaught). That variance was denied. JCHC was attempting to move forward an affordable housing model, or co-investment model, wherein the financial foundation would be provided by investments by a collective of businesses. - Bob Covey

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Developers need to heed residents’ concerns Re: Senior wants apartment variances revoked (November 1, 2021 Jasper Local) Given the circumstances, I can’t blame her immediately outside my living room at all! In Bob Covey’s recent article, “Local window. Not only have I completely lost senior wants apartment variances revoked,” my river valley view, my property value has we met Jasper resident, Helen Schwarz, tumbled, and my quality of life has greatly who has launched a petition against the decreased (construction has been ongoing planned low-income residents’ apartment for the past five years with noise, mammothdevelopment on Connaught Drive. While I sized construction vehicles, and activity for am a strong supporter of such housing, the up to 12 hours per day...). planned building will obscure neighbours’ I hope that Helen continues her fight and views, steal parking spaces, and result in finds satisfaction. Developers need to pay residents living in homes not much larger far more attention and respect to current than closets. Helen is also concerned that residents. If the project doesn’t work, look her feedback on the project didn’t seem to at other options - including adapting the be considered ... this developer intends to design, building elsewhere, or abandoning plow ahead and completely ignore the raised the idea entirely. issues.

Best Regards, I greatly sympathize with Helen. I too Rick Lauber, Edmonton have had ongoing construction happening

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The Jasper Local // ISSUE 200 // MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021

LOCAL REAL ESTATE

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER // Saturday November 13 saw the 2nd Annual Jasper Legion Mess Gala Dinner and Event host hundreds of guests to take in VIP speakers, military tradition, performances and fine dining and celebration. The event was part of a two-week celebration of veterans around Remembrance Day. // BOB COVEY

Jasper Brew Pub to purchase Chaba Theatre The owners of Bear Hill Brewing have made an offer to purchase the historic Chaba Theatre in Jasper and while the deal has not been finalized, the offer has been accepted, pending conditions.

Bear Hill Brewing is the parent company of Jasper Brewing Co. Like thousands of kids who grew up in Jasper before them (and since), the Brew Pub’s owners— Socrates Korogonas, Brett Ireland and Alex Derksen—have fond memories of going to the movies.

“It’s a landmark in the community,” Korogonas said.

The theatre first opened in 1926, when its projectors were powered

by CN Rail, the only source of electricity in the town at the time.

The Wacko family purchased the Chaba in 1946. After his father unexpectedly passed, Dwain Wacko, along with his mother and sister, bought out his father’s former business partners.

In 1989, Wacko tore down the former Chaba and rebuilt a multiscreen theatre, debuting a new standard of entertainment in Jasper. And despite technological advancements in home theatre systems, the rise of streaming services and the general evolution in the way people watch movies, the Chaba Theatre has cemented itself as a community institution.

But the COVID pandemic put the entertainment industry on ice.

Across the world and to varying degrees, cinemas and movie theatres have closed, festivals have been cancelled or postponed and

film releases have been moved to future dates or delayed indefinitely.

In December of 2020, Wacko reported the Chaba was doing only 10 per cent of its usual business.

“It’s challenging. It’s discouraging.

We’re trying to weather it all,” Wacko said at the time.

Because of those challenges, and after much soul searching, this past spring, Wacko put the theatre up for sale.

“Coming to terms with it was very stressful [but] I found I must move on,” Wacko said.

In October, the Brew Pub put an offer on the Chaba, which Wacko accepted, with conditions. Those details aren’t public at this time, but Korogonas said the group is exploring their options.

“We love the location and we’re

looking at the best uses for the building in terms of the community and the destination,” Korogonas said. “But we’ve discovered that as a business, the theatre has very little potential for long-term sustainability.”

That sentiment might be hard for cinephiles to stomach—along with showing new releases, the Chaba has been the winter home to The Jasper Film Club for the better part of two decades—but Korogonas knows the importance of the venue to the community and hopes to be able to share more details with the community once their plan, along with the necessary approvals from key stakeholders, is finalized.

“We all grew up with the Chaba.

We want to respect its incredible legacy,” he said.

BOB COVEY // thejasperlocal@gmail.com

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LOCAL EDUCATION

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021 // ISSUE 200 // The Jasper Local // PAGE B2

Albertans’ curriculum concerns falling on deaf UCP ears Despite having been given the option of test-driving the Alberta government’s Draft K-6 curriculum, no teachers in the Grande Yellowhead Public School Division (GYPSD) have elected to pilot it.

That’s the trend across the province—92 per cent of school boards have said they won’t pilot the proposed curriculum and public and expert feedback has been overwhelmingly critical, calling the curriculum developmentally inappropriate and ideologically-driven—yet the Alberta government continues to push it forward.

“It’s scary, the government has had all this advice to go back to the drawing board and they just ignore it,” said Jasperite Sandy Cox. Cox retired in 2011 after teaching junior high language arts and social studies for more than 30 years. Since it was introduced in the spring, Cox has followed closely the roll-out of the draft K-6 curriculum. While she has deep concerns that, if implemented, the proposed curriculum will result in disengaged students with little grounding in critical thinking stills, Cox’s first complaint is that the process of how the curriculum has been drafted has been flawed. There was no input sought from educators, for example, and the UCP’s repeated talking point that they had a mandate to “pause the NDP-driven curriculum” comes across as politically-driven, Cox said.

“There’s a lack of respect shown by this government towards teachers and their expertise,” she said. “They’ve ignored the school boards who’ve said they can’t pilot it, they’ve ignored the association of school councils, they’ve ignored the teachers, they’ve ignored everybody.”

And they’ve ignored Cox. She’s penned several letters to West Yellowhead MLA Martin Long expressing her dismay with the draft curriculum, suggesting it is developmentally inappropriate and will cultivate a “generation of reluctant readers.” In response, she’s only received form letters from the MLA’s office.

“The fact that not one of the MLAs are willing to speak up, I can’t believe how gutless they are,” Cox said.

MLA Long was in Jasper for a Remembrance Day

event. The Jasper Local asked him what he’s heard from constituents about the draft curriculum and if he will be bringing that feedback to Education Minister Adriana LaGrange.

“I’ve let constituents, parents and teachers know any concerns they have they can email my office and I’ll compile those and I’ll deliver that to Minister LaGrange,” Long said. He said if feedback is received by March it will give him enough time to forward it along.

Long suggested that while the draft social studies module, in particular, has been garnering a lot of media attention, the english and math components are being received in a more positive light.

“On the english part we’ve actually used someone that was renown globally,” he said.

When asked what his take on the draft curriculum, Long admitted he hadn’t actually read it.

“There’s over 500 pages of curriculum,” he laughed. “So I haven’t got to it all.”

Long said his mother was a primary teacher in eastern Canada where he grew up, and his sister and wife are both teachers.

“I come from a deep respect of teachers,” he said.

That’s not the message Cox is getting from the government. She noted GOA staffers, Minister LaGrange and even Premier Jason Kenney have referred to Alberta teachers and parents as “special interest groups.” She said the continued emphasis on rote memorization instead of critical thinking skills flies in the face of research which shows students learn best by developing their evaluating, reasoning and analyzing skills.

“It’s focusing on how much a kid knows by how much they can regurgitate,” Cox said. “They will be so disengaged.”

Newly-elected GYPDS chair, Jasper school trustee Dale Karpluk, said the problems as pointed out by curriculum experts, teachers and parents is cause for worry. Although the board voted last year to leave the door open for any GYPSD teacher wanting to pilot the draft curriculum and they created a committee to review it, so far that committee has not produced a report.

Karpluk said that the board would advocate for their constituents and focusing on student achievement.

“How are they going to achieve if they don’t have a solid curriculum teachers are comfortable with?” Karpluk asked.

BOB COVEY // thejasperlocal@gmail.com

LEAP AND THE NET WILL APPEAR // After 36 years, Kathleen Waxer retired from her position as the Municipality of Jasper’s Community and Family Services Director. Her retirement party at Papa George’s Restaurant marked the end of a career and the beginning of a new chapter as municipal councillor. // BOB COVEY

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The Jasper Local // ISSUE 200// MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021

dancing breaks out

Pass from 3000m

Grizzly images // gord trenholm shoots & Scores

Folky face off // musicians vie for festival spot

Spreading the words //

Story time // celebrating

page turners turning up

seniors week

Robb wins Award of Excellence Adam Robb has won the 2013 Alberta’s Excellence in Teaching Award.

The 32-year-old Jasper Jr./Sr. High School teacher was one of 120 semifinalists from across the province. Last year, 23 finalists were honoured by the Minister of Education.

Robb, whose Sustainability class has been the conduit for various studentled community initiatives, including

the forthcoming self-sustaining modular classroom, said his success has been the product of his surroundings.

“I’m in an extraordinary environment,” he said. “We have strong role models, we’re in a national park and I’ve had a lot of creative freedom to teach.”

Robb credited fellow teachers, James Bartram and Sandy Cox, with blazing new trails in local education.

“They showed how students can en-

gage with their community,” he said.

Parent Magda Mahler has witnessed the impact Robb has made on his students and told as much to the award selection committee.

“Adam encourages students to work outside their personal comfort zone and as a result they come out with confidence and skills they didn’t even know they had,” she wrote. robb wins // continued page 3

MATERNITY WARDEN// PARKS CANADA EMPLOYEE BARB SHARP TRANSPORTS A CALF TO SAFETY // NICOLE GABOURY

Elk calves dropping, risk of conflicts rising Elk babies are on the move.

Every spring, even as grizzly bears satiate their massive appetites in the valley bottom, it’s Jasper’s ubiquitous ungulates which pose the greatest safety risk, as pregnant cow elk move into areas populated by humans to birth their young. The townsite, area campgrounds and the Jasper Park Lodge property are prime places for mother elk to turn squirrelly.

“They want to be near people but they become overly protective and very aggressive,” said Grant Peregoodoff, Parks Canada’s humanwildlife conflict specialist.

To mitigate the risk, resource

management and public safety personnel often move the newborn babies out of high human traffic areas.

The tactic requires a bit of finesse.

After the calf is discovered, a designated “calf carrier” picks up the 40 pound bundle while three other hockey stick-wielding personnel “defend.” Having selected a safe place to drop the baby, the group moves in a way that will keep the mother at bay, but still interested in its young. Often that means producing a baby elk squeak, either with an imitation call or by giving the calf a pinch to achieve the

real McCoy. “The call will re-engage the mother,” Peregoodoff said. “Then we re-unite them in a safer location.”

Parks staff can’t always come to the rescue, however. On May 28, a cinnamon bear was spotted feeding on a newborn calf approximately 50 m behind the Catholic Church.

Peregoodoff said the baby elk are scentless when they’re born, so the bear likely discovered the calf by accident.

Resource management staff hazed the bear into the forest and moved the carcass. bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

bob covey //

bob@thejasperlocal.com

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n’ gals’ grad gallery

Flippin funky// all aboard the moonshine express

Local trailblazers can finally own up to their name.

Public feedback in light of proposed winter closures in Jasper National Park has been overwhelmingly

BIKING SEASON HAS ARRIVED // BOB COVEY

Top of the class // guys

Parks gives users OK to clear trails

Save the 'bou, Parks told

in favour of caribou conservation, according to Parks Canada officials.

“We got a lot more support than we anticipated,” said John Wilmshurst, Resource Conservation Manager for Jasper National Park.

On February 28, almost 170 park users crammed into the Amethyst Lodge to provide input on the proposed closures. At that time, Parks Canada said the decision would be announced in May. On May 7, Wilmshurst said the significant amount of public feedback received, plus a spike in interest in the issue by bureaucrats in Ottawa, had delayed the announcement.

“The national office has asked to be briefed on this,” Wilmshurst said.

Parks Canada spokesperson Allison Ogle said the agency hopes to have an announcement by June.

Online features

WiL // Strings break,

Air up there // Athabasca

Yogis get down

thejasperlocal.com

You’re grounded //

peaceful protest

Online features

Tree plea // Locals stage

thejasperlocal.com

Online features

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LOOKING BACK

The Jasper Trail Alliance (JTA) and Parks Canada are certifying trail users to perform basic upkeep on Jasper’s network of trails.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Marci DeWandel, who works in Parks Canada’s Visitor Experience office.

Once certified, individuals are permitted to carry small hand saws and trimmers to clear small trees and branches which impede the trails for hikers, bikers and horse riders.

Until this spring, Parks Canada did not allow trail users to clear trails, although DeWandel admitted the practice was known to be fairly commonplace. Now, with Parks’ support, 17 people have attained their Basic Sight Line and Trail Clearing Level 1.

“The interest has been great,” she said.

Don Pilger was one of those certified. On May 26 the avid hiker was setting out for the Pyramid bench with his hiking poles, water and a lunch. Strapped to his pack was a hand saw.

“There were 76 trees down on the Saturday Night Lake Loop last week,” he said. “I had my

BODY AND SOLE // JEAN-YVES DOUCET HAS RECENTLY STARTED BAREFOOT RUNNING. THE 24-YEAR-OLD JASPER LOCAL WAS INSPIRED

BY THE BOOK BORN TO RUN. BAREFOOT RUNNERS ARGUE THAT YOUR FEET HAVE ENOUGH SUPPORT WITHOUT RUNNERS, HOWEVER, DOUCET CARRIES MINIMALIST RUNNERS FOR TRAILS. BOB COVEY PHOTO //

trailblazers // cont page 3

independent

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JASPER

THE LOCAL

sunDAY, march 15, 2015 // issue 45

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tuesday, september 1, 2015 // issue 56

thejasperlocal.com

Jasper's top administrator stepping down

Burs with ting P I N S ride IDE!

JASPER NATIONAL PARK IS CHANGING UP ITS SUPE OF THE DAY.

HIDDEN GEM // A LOCAL SKIER ENJOYS THE MAGIC OF EVELYN PASS, LOCATED IN THE MALIGNE VALLEY. // CAROLINE ROY

Grassfire along pipeline burns hot and fast A GRASS FIRE ALONG THE KINDER MORGAN PIPELINE RIGHT-OF-WAY HAD JASPER FIRE OFFICIALS SCRAMBLING TO GET IN FRONT OF THE FAST-BURNING FLAMES ON MARCH 1.

The blaze was ignited in the Devona area, northeast of Jasper between the Athabasca and Snake Indian Rivers.

The cause of fire was a spark from a welder on the CN line.

“Things got away,” fire and vegetation specialist Dave Smith said. “[The CN crew] made a valiant attempt to put it out but it ran down the pipeline [right-of-way].

The fire burned for approximately one kilometre before it was suppressed by a creek which crosses the right-of-way.

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“It was very fast moving but because it was just in the grass all it needed was a break,” Smith said. “When it got to the creek crossing that was the end of it.”

Smith said upon hearing the report at 1 p.m. his crew was aware of the conditions and the fuel type and therefore were confident that the fire would stay in the remediated grasses which have been planted on the right-of-way.

“We knew what the fire behaviour would be like. The plan was to get out in front of it and put in a guard,” Smith said. Their suppression work was deemed unnecessary after the fire was quelled by the creek.

A combination of dry, light fuels and strong winds led to the fire.

Bob Covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

MIRROR, MIRROR, ON THE WALK // CARA BROCK FROM GLOBAL ROPE ACCESS IN CANMORE WAS ONE OF THREE TECHNICIANS CONTRACTED TO HELP CLEAN UP DEBRIS DROPPED FROM THE REFLECTIVE PLATFORM OF BREWSTER’S SKYWALK AUGUST 25. // BOB COVEY

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thursday, february 15, 2018 // ISSUE 115

bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

ELLIOT VASSALLO STEPS ON THE GAS WHILE OUT FOR A RIDE ON JASPER TRAI

LOCAL + independent

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Greg Fenton, who’s been Jasper’s Superintendent since 2007, has accepted an assignment as Special Advisor, Development Regulations, with Parks Canada.

Replacing him will be Alan Fehr, who acted in the position when Fenton took a five month leave last November. Fenton will leave his position September 7; Fehr will take over November 1.

After 35 years with Parks Canada, Fenton is looking forward to his new assignment prior to retiring from Parks Canada and the Federal Public Service, a memo from Parks Canada said.

Fenton’s tenure has included its share of local controversy, including the consideration of commercial development at Maligne Lake, significant slashes to the local field unit in 2012 and sweeping winter closures to backcountry ski areas in the name of caribou conservation.

Some of his legacy projects have included improved relations with First Nations stakeholders, increased collaboration with the Municipality of Jasper and ratifying the Jasper Partnership Initiative.

Fenton and his wife, Libby Weir, will continue to make the community their home following his retirement.

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Wabasso Lake wildfire extinguished A small fire started by lightning close to the Jasper townsite has been extinguished by initial attack fire crew members.

Helicopters were bucketing water from Wabasso Lake and crews were on the ground to manage the 0.2 hectare fire.

Smoke was reported shortly after lightning strikes from a passing storm on July 29. The fire was approximately the same size as a football field end zone, Parks Canada officials said.

“The fire was contained and did not pose a risk to people or assets,” communications officer

JASPER’S SETH JOHANNSSON, 11, CHUCKS A METHOD AIR INTO THE CLOUDS AT MARMOT BASIN ON FEBRUARY 11 // BOB COVEY

Dead caribou calf found on Marmot Road Jasper National Park officials are investigating the death of a caribou on the Marmot Basin road.

On the afternoon of February 2 a dead male caribou calf was located on the roadway near Portal Creek. A wolf was observed on the carcass, but officials were unable to confirm a cause of death.

is an important reminder that the Tonquin herd of woodland caribou inhabit the area.

“Stay on designated trails and avoid areas that have obvious signs of caribou—watch for tracks or craters where caribou have dug through the snow foraging for lichen,” he wrote in an email.

Young said members of the public can help with caribou “The carcass has been removed and samples have been monitoring by reporting sightings to Parks Canada. taken as part of the investigation,” said Steve Young, public Stay tuned to The Jasper Local for updates on this relations and communications officer for Parks Canada. investigation.

The Astoria River and Portal Creek trails open for winter bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com recreation on Friday, February 16. Young said this incident

IVANA HRABALOVA JUMPS INTO AN ICY COOL CURATOR LAKE JULY 25 ON THE SKYLINE TRAIL // LADA D PHOTOGRAPHY

b. covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

JASPER

The Local

Steve Young said.

Much of the smoke across Alberta, including Jasper, is from wildfires burning in British Columbia and even as far away as Europe, according to officials.

No fire ban is in effect at this time in Jasper National Park. Fires are only permitted in designated fire pits in campgrounds and day-use areas in the national parks.

Report any sign of wildfire to Parks Canada dispatch call 780-852-6155 or call 911.

Fire information and updates can be found on the Jasper National Park website.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2020 // ISSUE 176

ALTERNATIVE +

ALTERNATIVE +

LOCAL + INDEPENDENT

LOCAL + INDEPENDENT ALTERNATIVE + HIKING WITH ANGELS// Jasper’s Regis St.-Pierre and his son Eliam frolicking amongst the wildflowers at Mount Edith Cavell Meadows, with the embrace of Angel Glacier in the background. // M.A. ARCAND

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A NEW DAWN // Times are a-changin’ at Maligne Lake as winter ice slowly sets up. See our feature story on page B3 and B4 to learn about changes to the way the Maligne Valley can be accessed this winter. // SIMONE HEINRICH

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FROZEN MOMENTS // Jasper Local Coverboy Michal Jurik was up to his old tricks in a new location recently, exploring ice claws in a stealthy location not far from the Icefields Parkway. // LADA D

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THANK YOU READERS // SINCE WE ASKED OUR READERS FOR SUPPORT ON OUR JOURNEY, MANY OF YOU HAVE RE WHOLLY EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE TO THE FOLLOWING SUPPORTERS:

Daralynn Johnson; Bryn and Sheena Thomas; Leo Arsenault; Dale Karpluk; Mike Wasuita; Beth Russell; Paulette Du Weatherhill; Warren Waxer; Glyn Lloyd; Warren Waxer; Volker Schelhaus; Doug Clement; Lee DeClercq; Ralph Meln Doyle; Loni Klettl; Karen Jacobs; Cameron Mahler; Bernie Kreiner; Don Meggison; Bernie Kreiner; Paula Cackett; Joe Dave MacDowell; Brian VanTighem; Kim Stark; Geoff Fraser; Cathy Jenkins; Christine Oeggerli; Brigid Scott; Kirsten Tracy Garneau; Andreas Sigrist; Andrea Cadieux; Wendy Hall; Jeannie Planche; Eugene Wegmuller; Carling Matthew The Jasper Local may be shutting down, but journalism in this community isn’t going away. See you on the other -Bob Covey

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Brookie of the year //

A clear view // gaining

the bite is on

perspective on multi-use

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What’s one more km?// Brewster claims climbers’ lot

thursday, may 15, 2014 // issue 25

Hoppy hoop jumping// Boozy bureaucracy

Trail tinkering// Re-routing rooty rides

Rescue me//

Stretched to the max scenario

Help wanted

Ultra proud:

In a month when job seekers are usually pounding the pavement looking for work, Jasper is experiencing a dearth of prospective employees, according to local experts.

This community is ultra responsive.

Jasper’s Career and Employment Centre is typically inundated with young people looking to spruce up their resumés and find out who’s hiring.

That’s just not the case this spring.

“It’s alarming,” said Ginette MarcouxFrigon, Executive Director of the Career and Employment Centre. “We’ve had almost no people coming into the office.”

The Career and Employment Centre helps direct those looking for work to job openings. One such vacancy, at Smitty’s Restaurant, has sat unanswered for more than six weeks.

“That’s unheard of for this time of year,” Marcoux-Frigon said.

As a consequence, owners and managers in Jasper’s restaurants, retail shops and hotels are having to work extra hours just to stay open. In some cases, despite the approaching summer season, businesses have been forced to temporarily close their doors so what few staff they have can get a break.

Syrahs of Jasper has taken that severe step. Known as one of Jasper’s best places to find a meal, the 40-seat bistro has been turning away potential diners

bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

A committee of volunteers raising money for a portable ultrasound machine has reached their goal of $60,000, paving the way for the purchase of the specialized medical equipment.

“I’m just amazed,” said Lorraine Wilkinson, a local nurse.

Dr. Declan Unsworth first proposed the fundraising GREAT GALLOPING GLACIERS// DANA RUDDY MARCHES UP 3,500M MT. BRAZEAU, campaign in November. A AT THE SOUTH END OF MALIGNE LAKE APRIL portable ultrasound machine, 30. THE 70 KM “DAY TRIP” INVOLVED BIKING he said, would give medical TO THE MOUNTAIN OVER THE FROZEN LAKE. staff at Jasper’s Seton // REINER THONI Healtchcare Centre a valuable tool for assessing internal trauma.

“This is the tool that would most improve patient care,” he said. building located in a parcel zoned industrial.

Jasper’s planning and development advisory The campaign struck a chord board has conditionally approved a proposal for “As usual we did raise a few of our concerns,” board with Jasperites. Wine tastings were planned, beer was a Transitional Workers Accommodation in the member John Ogilvy said. “But these require answering in the future, as they proceed.” brewed, raffles were launched.

Jasper Legion building.

Those concerns revolve mainly around how a Auctions, luncheons and live The Planning and Development Advisory transitional workers’ accommodation would be music events were organized.

Committee (PDAC) agreed that new Jasperites regulated. The board would like reassurance that Quilts were sewn, paintings looking for work need temporary housing while guests would be utilizing the accommodation for were created and elaborate they search for their job. On May 12 they gave their its intended purpose: i.e., to give job-seekers a culinary evenings were stamp of approval to a variance which would allow temporary place to stay while they look for work. celebrated. for staff accommodations to be constructed in a bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com “People were stopping us on the street, businesses were organizing fundraisers on their own,” Unsworth said.

The committee has placed the order for the potentially lifesaving technology.

“I can’t wait to get it in here,” Wilkinson said.

PDAC approves workers accom

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FIRST CONTACT// THE ARRIVAL OF JASPER’S NEWEST RECUITS, INCLUDING 18-YEAROLD JEMMA RAMSEY, FROM NEW ZEALAND, SIGNIFIES THE START OF SKI SEASON. RAMSEY WAS PART OF AN ANNUAL CHAIRLIFT EVACUATION TRAINING DRILL ON NOVEMBER 4, WHICH BROKE OUT INTO AN ALL-OUT SNOWBALL FIGHT WITH HER NEW COLLEAGUES // BOB COVEY

Calgary Zoo cans caribou breeding program PARKS CANADA’S PROPOSED CAPTIVE BREEDING PROGRAM TO AUGMENT DEPLETED CARIBOU HERDS HAS BEEN SHELVED. The project’s main partner, the Calgary Zoo, announced that it would not be proceeding with the project for financial reasons.

“The funding was not sufficient from Parks Canada to proceed on the [caribou] recovery program,” said Trish Exton-Parder, spokesperson for the Calgary Zoo. “We felt it would only be successful with a multi-million dollar investment.”

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Jasper reaches fundraising goal

Jasper experiencing labour shortfall

who want to eat on Mondays or Tuesdays.

“Good people are hard to find,” shrugged owner DJ Bowen.

At the Best Western Jasper Inn, restaurant manager Jesse Lent said he’s advertised for line cook positions for months.

“You can’t buy a resumé at this point,” he said.

Theories for the vacancies are varied. A hot economy in the energy industries—and not just in Alberta—has an impact. Changes to the foreign worker program which make it more expensive for employers to turn to foreign workers, also has an effect. A zero-vacancy Jasper rental market certainly doesn’t help. But another factor that MarcouxFrigon suggests is a changing trend in how young people are approaching the workplace. Particularly with Millenniums—those aged 18 to 20—there are new challenges for employers in keeping them engaged.

This group is less interested in leaving home after high school, has higher expectations in terms of rewards and less inclination to stick with a job if other options present themselves.

“I suspect all of this has an impact on the services levels in our community,” MarcouxFrigon said.

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The captive breeding program—a partnership between Parks Canada, the Calgary Zoo and the B.C. Government— was pegged as a cornerstone of Parks Canada’s caribou conservation strategy.

Jasper wildlife biologists had high hopes that the program could help the park’s dwindling caribou populations recover.

Other caribou conservation measures put in place in Jasper have included delayed winter access to three areas of important caribou habitat.

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predation on these small herds,” Parks Canada has said.

More conservation measures are expected to be announced before November 28. The agency is currently reviewing its caribou conservation actions to ensure they are aligned with Environment Canada’s caribou recovery strategy, released in June.

“Parks Canada continues to explore options and opportunities for partners in the establishment of a captive rearing facility to support caribou recovery actions,” a spokesperson said.

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Jasper Warden Days snuffed For the first time in four decades, Warden Days have been cancelled in Jasper.

Until this year, the biennial tradition has been an opportunity for those connected to the national park warden service, in all of its various evolutions, to reconnect.

Participants would take part in friendly competitions, gather ‘round the campfire and share a tale or two about the “way of life” in the service. Alumni who cut their teeth decades ago in the deep woods of the national parks’ backcountry districts mixed with newly-hired wildlife conflict officers.

They were brought together by a love of the job, no matter how far apart their duties may be today.

Jasper National Park hosted the ceremonies until this year. Parks Canada was not able to say why the volunteer-run events were cancelled by the time of The Jasper Local’s deadline.

Don Mickle, a director on the Park Warden Service Alumni Society, based out of Sundre, has attended the festivities in the past. Although he’d learned the events were cancelled, he hadn’t heard the rationale.

“It has been, of course, a wonderful tradition throughout the decades and Jasper Wardens were always great hosts,” Mickle said.

The last Warden Days took place in 2014.

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bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

Cougars euthanized by wildlife officials Two cougars that came too close to human kind were put down by Jasper National Park officials recently.

One animal was deemed a threat to public safety and was euthanized. The other was put down after it was struck by a vehicle on Highway 16 just west of the Jasper townsite, according to Parks Canada. Both incidents occurred on the morning of Wednesday, January 25.

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Moberly Bridge lights to be installed post-summer Parks Canada has confirmed that safety improvements will be

made at the intersection of Highway 16 and Maligne Lake Road to help manage increased traffic, but the majority of work is expected to be done from September to November.

thejasperlocal.com

Other aspects of road construction work will impact travel in and around Jasper National Park. Construction on highway and bridge projects will generally take place from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and bridge lane reductions and lane width narrowing are in effect 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

“Investments in visitor infrastructure will ensure the “To reduce impacts on the travelling public during the quality and reliability of visitor facilities for years to come busiest part of the summer, no work will be done at this and continue to allow Canadians to connect with nature,” intersection in July and August,” said public relations Zebrowski said. officer, Joseph Zebrowski. “Traffic control will be in place at

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the intersection on weekends during the summer.”

Traffic lights will be installed at the Moberly Bridge, but not until after the summer is over.

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on a leash, there were no humans present when the cougar attacked and that the animal did not act aggressively when confronted.

“We felt it would disappear,” said Parks Canada wildlife specialist, Mark Bradley.

But the cat didn’t disappear. Parks Canada staff learned of more sightings in, and adjacent to, high human-use areas.

Following carnivore management guidelines, wildlife-conflict staff determined that euthanasia was the best course of action to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

Ten days earlier, on January 15, a local family was in shock after a cougar attacked their seven-year-old dog in their “This was a very difficult decision for Parks Canada staff,” backyard, on the edge of town. Moments after his wife found a cougar had pinned their pet, Dale Diduck chased the animal said communications officer Steve Young. “But in the end, it was a necessary action to ensure visitor safety.” into a nearby tree. At that time, Parks officials made the decision not to kill the cougar, reasoning that the dog was not bob covey // bob@thejasperlocal.com

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COMRADES IN ARMS // INITIAL ATTACK FIRE CREW MEMBERS SEAN BUCKLE, BRETT HAUG, BEAU MICHAUD AND DANE OLINKIN HUG IT OUT DURING A HELICOPTER SLING CERTIFICATION DRILL AT THE JASPER AIRFIELD MAY 11.

THE CREW WILL SOON BE ON THE PYRAMID BENCH IMPLEMENTING A FIRE GUARD BURNING PROGRAM. // BOB COVEY

FRANCOIS LEPLANTE SWINGS FOR THE SWEET SPOT ON MELT-OUT, A LOCAL CLIMBING MECCA// TRISTAN NISSEN

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MOON LANDING // SPLITBOARDER MISA MANASKOVA EXPLORES AN OTHER-WORDLY CAVE IN THE STUTFIELD GLACIER AREA// LADA D PHOTOGRAPHY

Parks greenlighting secondary suites Parks Canada is changing its policy to allow Jasper homeowners to develop secondary suites.

DROP ZONE // JASPER’S ETHAN BEGLEY PLUNGES INTO A PICTURESQUE POOL ON BEAUTY CREEK. // MIKE GERE PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

Beginning March 2, homeowners may apply to Parks Canada for a permit to build a secondary suite, or to rent an existing suite that was not previously permitted.

SLURPS UP// TOURISTS GOT AN UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL LICK...ER, LOOK...AT A MALGINE MOOSE RECENTLY. // SIMONE HEINRICH PHOTOGRAPHY

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“The development of secondary suites will be allowed in the majority of the townsite, with the exception of multi-

unit dwellings,” reads the release.

A secondary suite is a self-contained living space that is within the primary home, has its own kitchen, sleeping and bathroom facilities, and is rented on a monthly basis, according to Parks Canada.

The March 5 Open House will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Parks Canada administration office, located in the Heritage Train Station on Connaught Drive.

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Shredded // Springtime at Marmot Basin is like no other season, as this skier was reminded high up on Susies Run, off the Peak. Marmot Basin remains wide open until May 2. // BOB COVEY

Parks Canada is hosting open house drop-in hours at their Realty and Municipal Services office. On March 5, members of the public with an interest in knowing more about secondary suite options can ask questions of Parks Canada staff.

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“This change is a result of a new policy designed to promote more affordable housing for the community,” a press release states. “This is one of many

initiatives that will have a positive impact on the number of rental units available in Jasper.”

thejasperlocal.com

2021 ELECTION EDITION Jasper votes October 18! All voters need proof of identification and residence.

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DIVE IN // With local elections candidates trying to make a splash, The Jasper Local brings you this special ELECTION EDITION to help you get acquainted with those running. See pages B1-B6 and on October 18 don’t forget to vote! // SIMONE HEINRICH

thejasperlocal.com

EACHED INTO YOUR HEARTS, AND YOUR WALLETS. WITH APOLOGIES TO THOSE WHO WE MAY HAVE MISSED, WE

ube; Destanne Norris; Dorothy Petersen; Janis; Noella Lazarri; Janet Barker; Sanne Van Der Ros; James Pasco; Rae nyk; Edi Klopfenstein; Charlie Finley; Karen Byers; Jenna McGrath; Lynda Shore; Lydia and Gerry Edwards; Sabrina e Cunningham; Greg and Krista Shore; A.L. Horton; Andreas Sigrist; Matricia Bauer; Ben and Yumi Campeau; n Schmitten; Su Young-Leslie; Jocelyn Nadeau; Alison Irvine; Lucas Habib; Jason Stockfish; Glenda MacDowell; ws; Devon Blackstock; Doug Olthof; Rachel Nelson; and Jill Seaton. side, Jasper.

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The Jasper Local // ISSUE 200 // MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021

LOCAL ATHLETES

Jasper ski racer shooting for the stars A third-generation Jasperite and life-long ski racer has his sights set on the top of the mountain.

and giant slalom, the 18-year-old was invited to train with the Alberta Ski Team. He remembers getting the call from one of the Alberta coaches.

next jump, but he needs the community’s help to get there.

Kertesz-Knight is fund-raising to support his ski racing dreams. His goal is to raise $15,000.

“I was nervous,” Kertesz-Knight recalled. “I wasn’t sure if it was going to be a good call or a bad call.”

“In order to move forward in my sport, I have to compete at a higher level,” he said.

The call wasn’t just good, it was amazing. The coach let Kertesz-Knight know that he’d been selected for the provincial team and that he was invited to go to Europe this fall to prepare for the upcoming race season.

Expenses include coaching, travel fees, room and board. He’s already had huge help from the Mount Robson Inn and Totem’s Ski Shop, but he’s hoping to appeal to the broader community by demonstrating his passion and his hard work.

“It’s a big step up from racing with the club team,” he said.

Although his parents strapped on his first set of skis when he was just two-years-old, Kertesz-Knight didn’t start racing with the Jasper Ski Team he was eight.

That’s where his love of racing developed.

“There’s a feeling when you make a nice turn and you start seeing all your hard work pay off,” he said.

For the past 10 years, Jesse Kertesz-Knight has dedicated his life to becoming the best ski racer that he can be.

After he outgrew what was available this community, two years ago, Kertesz-Knight joined up with the Banff Alpine Racers. There he was the top male racer selected to compete in nationals, the top U16 Alberta overall title winner and the recipient of the Rob Bosinger Memorial Ski Scholarship, awarded to the racers who exemplify passion for the sport, ambition and courage.

This past spring, after posting impressive results in slalom

Now Kertesz-Knight is finding the courage to take the

“Having graduated from high school with honours this year, I now have more time to pursue my ski goals, which include improving my world ranking and hopefully qualifying for the World Junior Ski Championships,” he said.

His full-time training schedule might seem gruelling to others, but Kertesz-Knight sees developing his skiing as a privilege.

“I wouldn’t call it a sacrifice,” he said. “I feel lucky and thankful for all those who supported me.”

You can help Kertesz-Knight pursue his skiing goals at his GoFundMe.com page; search Jesse Kertesz-Knight’s Ski Racing Dream.

BOB COVEY // thejasperlocal@gmail.com

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A dusting in the desert: Jasper cyclist crushes A Rocky Mountain rider is the top dog of the desert.

Jasper’s Andrew Bovard is back from a marathon mountain bike race in Utah, where after riding his bike for more than a full rotation of the earth, he was crowned the 2021 male solo champion of the 25 Hours in Frog Hollow Race.

“I still can’t feel my feet,” the 45-year-old said a week after he a new course record at the venue near Zion National Park, where the temperatures peaked at 30 degrees Celsius during the day and dove to near zero in the desert night.

The numbness wasn’t due to cold but to the punishment of pushing himself for a full day. Bovard, who rides for DeadGoat Racing out of Calgary, said he was happy with

how he stuck to his game plan, i.e. making consistent lap times, letting the field sort itself out and then taking the lead sometime in the middle of the night.

“I knew that course,” he said. “I felt calm.”

Bovard has raced in more than 20 24-hour mountain bike events in his racing career. He admitted it was sweet taking home the victory as the only Canadian in the field.

“You’ve gotta fly the patriotic flag down there because they do it to you.”

Next up for Bovard is the World 24 Hour Championship event in Finale Ligure, Italy in May.

// DAVE AMODT, CRAWLING SPIDER PHOTOGRAPHY

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LOCAL WILDLIFE

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021 // ISSUE 200 // The Jasper Local // PAGE B6

SNOWY COATS AND ICY CHAMBERS // Dazzling scenery and dashing wildlife abounded in photographer Simone Heinrich’s latests adventures with a camera. //SIMONE HEINRICH

JASPER VOTES OCTOBER 18!

Part of Jasper Brewing Company’s goal is to showcase our community – to share with the world all that is special and unique about this place. Jasper is our home, we were born and raised here and we have a responsibility to the community because we’re a part of it.

At its simplest, we make and serve good beer and we have a good time doing it. We’re always happy to crack a joke and share a laugh with our friends. Recently we ran an ad in this newspaper with a joke aimed at Parks Canada – our valued friend and partner. In retrospect, that doesn’t align with our core values. The thing about jokes is that they’re subjective.

It’s ok to laugh with your friends, but it’s not ok to laugh at your friends. We know better than that and we slipped up.

We want to contribute to building up this wonderful community we’re all a part of – it’s why we do what we do.

We want to assure everyone in Jasper that we are committed to strengthening this community and all those who proudly call it home, to celebrating our collective uniqueness and sharing that with the world. That’s what we’re here for, and from time to time we might stumble a bit, because we are all just people after all. But we’re not afraid to learn from our mistakes and keep on building up this amazing community.

Alex Derksen Socrates Korogonas Brett Ireland Founders, Jasper Brewing Co