Green Petal welcomes new owner
Kim Larson is the new owner of Green Petal, a floral design and gift shop located in Fernie. A passionate landscape gardener, Larson holds a journeyman certificate in landscaping from Olds College, and has years of experience working in design, plant, and tree care. Despite purchasing Green Petal in the midst of a pandemic, Larson quickly acquainted herself with operations and looks forward to building supportive relationships with other Fernie businesses.
“The opportunity to own the Green Petal was a perfect fit. I am overjoyed to play in the dirt again while potting plants and coming home smelling of eucalyptus.” said Larsen in a press release.
Established in 2010, Green Petal offers custom floral design, kitchen and home decor, and a variety of plants. Following all WorkSafe BC guidelines, the shop is currently open seven days a week and provides free delivery within Fernie.
Fernie Chamber of Commerce coordinates Downtown Business Survey
To support city staff in reviewing options for the reanimation of Fernie’s downtown business scene, the Fernie Chamber of Commerce independantly issued a Downtown Business Survey. Intended to better understand what the city can do to support Fernie’s downtown businesses, the survey was available to the public until June 3. Information gathered was then presented to city staff at the council meeting on June 8.
Kootenay Market halts senior shopping hours
The Kootenay Market in Elkford ceased offering specialty shopping hours for seniors, pregnant women, and immune-compromised individuals. The shop was previously open from 8 a.m. till 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings exclusively for those over the age of 60, and from 8 a.m. till 10 a.m. on Monday mornings for those with compromised immune systems and pregnant women. As of June 1, both specialty shopping hours have been revoked and normal hours resumed. The Kootenay Market is now open from 10 a.m. till 8 p.m. every day, however those requiring special assistance are still able to grocery shop prior to business hours upon contacting the store at 250-865-7514 for special arrangements.
Fernie Fresh opens up senior hours
As of May 28, the Fernie Fresh Food Share altered their schedule to appoint senior’s hours every Thursday from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m.. The time slot was created for seniors who do not otherwise normally use the food share program, in an effort to encourage accesibility, shorter wait times, and safer shopping experiences for the elderly. Social distancing is still in effect during the designated times, and hand sanitizer will be available upon entry.
3&93 Dairy Bar opens for the summer
The 3&93 Dairy Bar officially opened for the summer on June 5. Located in Elko, 3&93 is open from noon until 8 p.m. daily. To respect COVID-19 guidelines, orders will be take-out only, picnic tables have been removed, extra cleaning measures are in place, and staff are required to wear masks at all times. For updates and new menu items, visit 3&93’s Facebook page.
Island Lake Lodge sets reopening date
Island Lake Lodge is opening for summer operations on June 26 at 8 a.m.
Though COVID-19 regulations will be in place, both the Bear Lodge Bistro and the Tamarack Dining Room will open for food and beverage services from 11 a.m. till 8 p.m., and 5 p.m. till 9 p.m. respectively. Island Lake staff suggest making reservations for the Tamarack Dining Room due to capacity limitations.
The Spa at Island Lake Lodge will also be opening on a limited basis and by appointment. For more information, guests are encouraged to call in or check the website for details. Updates on accommodation will be released shortly, as staff are still evaluating options.
All related hiking and biking trails, as well as Island Lake Lodge’s canoes will also be accessible as of June 26. To limit traffic, bike shuttles for the Lazy Lizard Trail are discouraged, however riding up and down the trail is permitted.
Island Lake Lodge management is looking forward to a fantastic summer, however asks that all social distancing and COVID-19 related guidelines, signage and policies be followed. For more information on menus and COVID-19 related procedures, visit their website at Islandlakelodge.com/.
The Salvation Army Thrift Store is back in business
Complying with pandemic related guidelines set in place by governmental bodies, Fernie’s Salvation Army Thrift Store reopens its doors on June 16. Changes include enhanced cleaning procedures, social distancing efforts, safety screens, the use of personal protective equipment, and sanitization stations. The store will be open from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m. Tuesday till Friday. Donations are still not being accepted due to lack of space, however solutions are being assessed.
Branch Out Learning kicks off commercial contest
Branch Out Learning and Behaviour Therapy created a commercial contest to support local businesses. Participants are tasked to film a commercial for a local business of choice, posting it to Instagram with the tag @Branchoutlearning, to Facebook with the tag Branch Out Learning and Behaviours Therapy, or emailing it to cari.branchout@gmail.com. The deadline for submissions is June 30. All participants are entered to win one of two prize packages consisting of items from local shops, along with a $25 gift certificate to their featured business.
reporter@thefreepress.ca
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