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Trail  

Kootenay woman dies after fall from moving vehicle

Fatal fall from moving truck

The BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit is seeking witnesses or video related to a fatal motor vehicle incident that occurred on Jan. 9. in Trail.

Police say they responded to a incident just before midnight that resulted in the death of Fruitvale resident Laura Morrison.

Morrison, 38, reportedly fell from the front passenger side of a moving vehicle, a white 2023 Ford F-150, on Old Rossland Avenue. She sustained serious, life-threatening injuries and later passed away.

A man from the pickup truck was seen at the scene before driving away.

“The driver is known to Laura and MCU investigators are looking to confirm the circumstances leading up to Laura’s death and to determine whether there was any criminality involved," said Insp. Brent Novakoski, of the BC RCMP Southeast District Major Crime Unit.

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police, or anyone with dash-cam video or CCTV footage from Rossland Avenue between 3 p.m. and midnight on Jan. 9, is asked to contact the Southeast District Major Crime Unit’s information line at 1-877-987-8477.





Trail RCMP mediate noodle fight between neighbours

Tensions boil over noodles

An argument between neighbours in Trail brought forth some unusual circumstances on Friday, Jan. 24.

The Trail and Greater District RCMP reported that they had to intervene after a Trail resident reported their neighbour for repeatedly throwing noodles into their yard just before 8 p.m.

The complaint came from the 600 block of Hendry Street, after a man allegedly tossed noodles over the fence into his neighbour's yard, where the neighbour's dog didn't hesitate at the chance to get some free food, and subsequently ate them.

"I believe the dog was the only one not upset by this conflict," Trail police Sgt. Mike Wicentowich said in a news release.

Mounties said the dog's owner attempted to reason with their noodle-throwing neighbour, in which case tensions boiled over, prompting a call to police.

The two neighbours separated and agreed to cease interacting with one another.



Trail RCMP seek suspect in bong theft

It's wrong to steal a bong

Trail RCMP is asking the public to help locate a suspect who allegedly stole a glass bong from a local business.

Police said that a man entered a store on the 100 block of Farwell Street, took a glass marijuana bong valued at roughly $150, and fled the scene without paying on Monday, Jan.20.

The incident was recorded on video surveillance.

"That's like, not cool man," said Sgt. Wicentowich of the Trail and Greater District RCMP in a news release.

Mounties are asking for anyone who can identify the suspect to contact the Trail RCMP detachment at 250-364-2566.



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Trail council considers electric vehicle proposal

Drive to electric avenue

Trail city council discussed a proposal to utilize provincial funding to support more electric vehicles (EVs) in the area.

During a Jan. 27 meeting, councillors expressed support for the initiative, while some raised concerns about the potential future costs.

The provincially-funded Local Government Climate Action Plan aims to reduce communities greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in communities to reduce the impacts of a changing climate.

In 2024, the provincial government increased the budget, adding $72 million for communities to accelerate their climate goals. The city proposal includes purchasing two electric trucks, installing an EV charging station, and using the remaining funds for an electric land lift.

The popularity of electric vehicles in most of B.C.'s rural areas has been steadily gaining popularity over the last five years.

According to Statistics Canada, the total number of EVs accounted for 3 per cent of light-duty vehicle registrations in 2022, up from 2.3 per cent in 2021.

A 2022 Canadian Auto Dealer consumer poll reported that 71 per cent of Canadians would rather buy an electric than a non-electric vehicle the next time they go to purchase a car.

Despite the rising interest, electric vehicles can be a tough sell for people living in rural areas like the West Kootenays.

A lack of charging bases, available services and rough terrain not suitable for most EV models are some of the barriers people living in more secluded areas face when considering purchasing one.

ICBC reported that EV ownership rates in most of B.C. rural areas are currently less than one per cent of all vehicles. EV ownership is the lowest in northern B.C., where a reported 0.1 per cent of vehicles are electric.

However, city staff reassured the council that the proposed vehicles are expected to come with warranties that would mitigate the risk of added costs in the future. Specifically to lithium-ion batteries which the cars are powered by.

The council is now faced with the decision to either approve or cancel the purchase of the electric trucks, the EV charging station, and the electric land lift.

A decision is expected in the coming weeks, as the next regular council meeting is scheduled for Feb. 10.



Trail council approves heat recovery project for Trail Memorial Centre amid budget concerns

Rink project approval

The Trail City Council discussed the timeline and budget for a heat recovery project during its Jan. 27 meeting, an initiative that marks the first major updates in 56 years.

The city has entered the second phase of renovations at the Trail Memorial Centre, focusing on the installation of a heat recovery system.

The recommendation made to council pertains to reviewing the city's recreational facilities and energy efficiency projects, specifically approving a $1,849,000 contract with Reward Construction Ltd. to replace the refrigerator systems.

In April 2024, council issued a request for proposals for the kids rink underfloor heat and TMC dehumidified upgrades. The project aims to replace outdated equipment and establish a foundation for energy recovery systems at the Trail Memorial Centre.

Key points of the project include replacing a desiccant dehumidifier that has reached its shelf life. The project also seeks to implement ammonia system upgrades.

Project coordinators explained that they're dealing with something that hasn't been done within 56 years, and that they're combining renovations with the heat recovery project.

In 2023, the city received a $2.5 million grant from CleanBC Communities which partially funds the initiative.

Coun. Hanson raised concerns and inquired about the potential cost overruns.

"It is looking like it's going to be over budget. Where are we with the kid's rink?” she asked.

Project coordinators attributed the increase in costs to unpredicted structural base issues and additional changes made throughout the project. Some changes included engineering design work and architectural considerations from the projects architect Matthew Stanley.

Additionally, council was asked to approve a $729,000 contract with Athletica Systems Inc. for the supply and installation of the rinks infrastructure.

Both recommendations were approved by the council.



This Trail burlesque show will bring the heat this Valentine's season

"Love Bites" burlesque

Not a fan of the typical Valentine's Day clichés?

Then the Love Bites: A Valentine’s Burlesque Variety Show, might be just the ticket for you.

Trail’s own Guido La Bido, will take the stage in their hometown for the first time in 38 years. Ready to entertain as the "Italian Stallion" with a heart of gold.

Presented in part by the Trail Arts Council and Déjà Louve, this one-night-only-event features top tier talent from across North America including burlesque stars Honey Badger of Burlesque (of the Jeeze Loueeze collective).

The performer RedBone (2019 "Princess of Burlesque") will also be attendance along with Toronto's power house duo Ivory and Belle Jumelles; champions of body positivity and self love.

The night also includes locals performers Déjà Louve, Bella Cat, Backdoor Breena, Kylee Unlikely, Rosy Ripples, Strawberry Sweetcheeks, and Vivian Brass. Plus, unique acts from Cecil the Sad Clown and Cat Zaddy, who weaves in high-energy blend of pole dance, afro and samba into their acts.

"We don't get a ton of Burlesque at the Bailey and so, we are so lucky to have all this talent in the room for one special night. Thanks to Déjà Louve, we get all these fabulous artists from across North America, and the best from the region, all in one place for a few days," said artistic Director of the Trail Arts Nadine Tremblay.

Whether it's an early Valentine's gift or girls night out Tremblay said the show is expected to be a lively one.

"You won't want to miss this rare and super fun experience."

Event details

  • When: Friday, Feb.7 starting at 7:30 p.m.
  • Where: The Bailey Theatre located in Trail.
  • Tickets: VIP are $54 and include a gift bag and prime seating. General admission is $32.Scarlet Mary Rose- low-income tickets are $15, or you can buy 8 regular tickets and get two for free.

The show is for people over the age of 19. Tickets are available at the Trail Arts Council website, the Box Officer located at 1501 Cedar Avenue or you can call 250-368-9669 for more details.

Get ready for a evening of comedy, tease, and top-notch burlesque.



Rossland council adopts the Path to Inclusion: The Rossland Accessibility Plan

Inclusion, accessibility path

A path to inclusion and accessibility is beating its way to the door of the city of Rossland.

Put forth by the City of Rossland, the "Path to Inclusion: The Rossland Accessibility Plan" is a strategic initiative aimed at making the city a more “inclusive, welcoming and accessible environment for all residents and visitors.”

In essence, the plan is the result of community consultation and collaboration with accessibility experts.

“The Rossland Accessibility Plan is a significant step towards creating a city where everyone can participate fully in community life,” said Rossland Mayor Andy Morel. “We are committed to making Rossland a place where all residents and visitors feel welcome and supported.”

The plan outlines a series of initiatives designed to remove barriers and enhance accessibility in public spaces, transportation, housing and city services, with the key components including:

  • Infrastructure improvements: upgrading sidewalks, crosswalks and public buildings to meet accessibility standards;
  • Accessible transportation: expanding accessible public transit options and improving transportation services for individuals with disabilities;
  • Inclusive housing: promoting the development of accessible and affordable housing units; and
  • Community engagement: establishing an accessibility advisory committee to ensure ongoing community input and oversight.

Uploading the plan

The Rossland Accessibility Plan is designed to be implemented over the next decade, with short-term (2025-2026), mid-term (2027-2029), and long-term (2029 and beyond) actions.

The timeline will create a phased approach to address accessibility needs and help the city address the most pressing issues first, while also planning for future improvements.

“The phased approach also ensures the city can allocate resources effectively, capitalize on any available grant opportunities, and make steady progress towards creating a more inclusive and accessible community,” noted a press release from the city.



Sonny Samuelson Bobsled Race set to sleigh Saturday

Bobsled race set to shine

It’s all downhill on Saturday for the West Kootenay’s premier bobsled race.

Starting at 9 a.m. in Rossland, the Sonny Samuelson Bobsled Race is set for Spokane Street as the long-running event enjoys a second-annual staging renaissance.

Last year hosted the return of the most colourful aspect of the Rossland Winter Carnival — also on the same weekend — that saw one of the traditional pillars of one of the oldest winter carnival’s in Canada come storming back.

After overcoming challenges, the race continues to be a symbol of the community’s resilience and its appetite for high-adrenaline sport and spectacle, said event chair Jon Marion.

“We’re ensuring this race stays a cornerstone of the Rossland Winter Carnival,” said Marion, an enthusiast and participant, racing The Damn Fast Eager Beaver for nearly two decades. “This tradition has lasted over a century, and we’re committed to keeping it alive and exciting.”

Building a homemade bobsled and racing it down eight icy blocks of Spokane Street may sound insane, but year after year, around 120 thrill-seekers, grouped into four-person teams on 30 sleds, saddle up and glide to victory.

Last year’s event, limited to a half-course due to weather, demonstrated the community’s support for the race’s revival. Organizers are even more excited this year, with fantastic winter conditions paving the way for the full eight-block track to be run for the first time in five years.

“Winter Carnival is Rossland’s busiest weekend of the year, and one of its biggest events is the bobsled race,” said Marion. “Every year, there are different sleds, but the ones from the ‘50s and ‘60s, or even earlier, are the ones that always secure those coveted top positions.”

Nostalgic sleds include Woody’s Tire, Iron Maiden, The Pink Canoe, Bobbi’s Bus, and more. Marion’s Eager Beaver isn’t the fastest of the bunch, but it’s no slouch either, reaching top speeds of 72 kilometres per hour.

After the race, winners will be awarded at noon in the beer garden inside the Olaus Ice Palace — an outdoor venue for the Blizzard Music Festival, running alongside the Rossland Winter Carnival.

On your mark

Registration and sled inspection will take place at the Calcutta event today at the Rossland Legion.

Doors open at 5 p.m., with sled inspections from 6-6:30 p.m., followed by registration. At 7:30 p.m., the highly anticipated bobsled Calcutta will begin, where attendees can bet on their favourite teams, adding an extra layer of competition.

The evening will wrap up with a performance by the Boomtown Garter Girls at 8 p.m.

Get involved

Anyone interested in volunteering on race day is encouraged to meet at 8 a.m. for a volunteer meeting at the Tower of Power at the bottom of the course. While some positions have been filled, organizers are still seeking additional flaggers.

  • For a full roster of events taking place during the oldest Canadian winter carnival, Jan. 23-26, visit rosslandwintercarnival.com.

— With files from Val Rossi, Writer’s Block.



Rossland's Game Rail Jam is looking for the next jib champion

Can you "jib" it?

It's time to show off your best rail sliding skills at one the most popular winter carnival events in Rossland.

The Game Rail Jam is returning to Queen Street and is featured as part of the upcoming Rossland Winter Carnival.

Contestants aged 7 to 15, 16 and older will go head-to-head in ski and snowboard heats to find the best jibber. Jibbing is a skill where skiers or snowboarders jump over or grind on an obstacle. All skill levels are welcome to participate, or you can watch from the sidelines.

The competition has a $28 entry fee, and is scheduled to run from noon to 2 p.m. Competitors are encouraged to register in person from 10:30 a.m to 11:30 a.m. Helmets are mandatory.

The top jibbers advancing to the finals can expect prizes such as goggles, Yeti mugs, and other winter-themed treats.

To sign up and take part in one of the most anticipated competitions of the year, visit the Rossland Winter Carnival website for more details.



Rossland's Winter Carnival is back, celebrating 126-years of tradition

Not old, but antiquish

One of Canada's oldest winter carnivals is back, celebrating its 126th year anniversary this year.

The Rossland Winter Carnival, which began in February 1898, is Canada's oldest winter carnival. Scheduled to run from Jan. 23 to Jan. 26, the community event is set to feature tobogganing, skating, ice sculptures, a snow maze, and a free outdoor ice rink.

The Blizzard Musical Festival will also take place, serving up a variety of different music performances across multiple venues in the city.

For more information on the festival and other events planned for the weekend, visit the official Rossland Winter Carnival website or click here.



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