May 2020 Business News
The Arts Station
601 1st Ave
250-423-4842
While The Arts Station building is closed for now, the organization is very much still open for business. There are many virtual opportunities to connect, create and get inspired. Highlights to watch out for include Art History with Jackie, a new episode each Friday introduces a prolific artist to viewers. Suitable for all ages and can be found on The Arts Station Youtube channel.
The Arts Station’s first virtual gallery Bare it All is available for view and purchase via theartsstation.com. You can also register for art workshops such as Drawing with Brina via the events page.Now is also the perfect time to get outside and see Fernie’s public art, with banners lining downtown and the highway, painted dumpsters around alleyways and behind buildings, and unobstructed views of the All kinds of Beauty mural for the perfect selfie. Be sure to tag @fernieartsstation and #ferniemuralproject on Instagram and Facebook.
Barkside Pets
791A 2nd Ave
250-423-4332
Barkside is currently open for curbside pick up or delivery from Monday through Saturday 10am - 6pm and closed on Sunday. You can call, email, or Facebook message whatever supplies you may need and they will get them ready for you. Payment can be made by either calling 250-423-4332 or e-transfer toinfo@barkside.com. Supplies can be picked up at Barkside or daily delivery can be arranged (in the Fernie area).
Big Bang Bagels
502 2nd Ave
250-423-7778
Big Bang Bagels was very sad to close its doors in March. Big Bang is a business that prides itself on being open every day of the year but three (Christmas day and their two staff days), but due to current Covid 19 circumstances Big Bang felt like closing, to encourage staff and customers to be social distancing, was the best thing they could do to keep people safe and to get Fernie back to fewer restrictions as soon as possible. Big Bang hopes the restrictions are lifted in some capacity soon, and they hope to open in some capacity in June, even if its just take out and delivery by bike with very minimum staff and hours. Big Bang would like to thank Fernie, they know you are just waiting in isolation to support Fernie businesses again.
Birr Agency
wearebirr.com
birr agency launched less than two years ago by long time residents Jude Smith and Kyle Hamilton. The aim was to provide Kootenay based businesses with professionally qualified marketing services, on par with “big city” offerings, but understanding the nuance of the Kootenays. In their short time in operations, they have already worked with a variety of clients, including some of the largest organizations in the region, including Teck, City of Cranbrook, the Ktunaxa Nation, and Columbia Basin Trust.
With the increased challenges of operating and marketing a business in a pandemic climate, birr has created a free template for business owners to develop their own marketing plan that utilizes all of the same tools that they use with their clients.
You can download the files and presentations at wearebirr.com/free-marketing-plan-template.
The Bridge Bistro
250-423-3002
The staff at the Bridge Bistro are doing what they can to continue to offer support, food and services to the community of Fernie. They created an online store with new items added regularly. This includes pre-made meals, fresh vegetables, flour, yeast, beer, wine and liquor with pick up on Monday and Friday from 4-5pm or delivery Monday and Friday 2-4pm for those in need. Delivery in Fernie is free for orders over $20. They are also hosting weekly wing night on Wednesdays! Order your wings, fries and/or poutine between 5-8pm and pay/pickup at a table in the parking lot.
All precautions are in place to ensure this is a safe process for staff and customers. Stay safe, and be kind.
Claris Media
361a 1st Ave
250-423-4062
Small businesses in Fernie are feeling the impact of this global pandemic. The sadness of closing our doors, reinventing our businesses to continue to be of value to our community, the financial stress that comes along with the lack of income and the unknown of the future. A positive is seeing the ingenuity coming out of this, and seeing our community showing up by shopping local and helping to spread the word.
Claris Media wants to know we’re here for you as well. If you have marketing, branding, web-design questions or needs - get in touch by emailing info@clarismedia.com or vanessa@clarismedia.com. Additionally, they can help create a marketing mix with their products in print (Fernie Fix, Wedding Guide, Summer Guide), online at FernieFix.com and on social media that fits your budget and needs. Contact krista@clarismedia.com.
As always, the team at Claris is happy to share via social media and its business news section any news, changes, specials you want to promote to the community. Keep your head up, we’re in this together.
C21 Mountain Lifestyles. Inc
362B 2nd Ave
250-423-2121
“Business has changed, but we are still here to help!”
The provincial government has deemed the Real Estate Industry an essential service and the team at CENTURY21 Mountain Lifestyles remains available to serve you.
Their staff is complying with recommendations from the Provincial and Municipal Health authorities, modifying how they conduct business. All realtors are working from home. For those with real estate needs, call the office or one of the C21 team members.
“Most importantly, our team wants everyone in our community to remain positive and vigilant in following the provincial and municipal guidelines in order to keep you, your family and all members of our commuting safe and healthy. In this time of uncertainty, it is important to show compassion and empathy to everyone,” say Martin and Marilyn Brock, owners.
Coal Town Goods
562 2nd Ave
778-519-5262
Coal Town Good would like to express their thanks for the incredible amount of support they have received from the community of Fernie and beyond.
“Owning a small business is a constant work in progress, which keeps you on your toes at the best of times… and these are not the best of times. But holy smokes, do people and communities ever show up for each other when the going gets tough.”
Visit Coal Town on Facebook and instagram to keep up to date with the new products arriving, specials and more and shop online at coaltowngoods.com. Free delivery in Fernie.
College of the Rockies
342 3rd Ave
250-423-4691
These are hard times for sure, but our communities are strong and people in the Elk Valley can get ‘er done! Let’s start thinking about better days to come when we are back enjoying the lifestyle we love. If your future involves training for a career change or starting your post-secondary education, College of the Rockies – Fernie campus can help. They’re working a little differently these days, but their team is still available to help you plan for your future. Register now for full-time programs beginning this fall: Mountain Adventure Skills Training, Health Care Assistant and UACE (ABE). Continuing Education fall courses will be available in late summer. Connect with College of the Rockies via email at Fernie@cotr.bc.ca, call 250-423-4691, or visit cotr.bc.ca/Fernie for more information.
Copper Tip Plumbing and Heating
copper-tip.ca
250-423-6937
To ensure the safety and well-being of their customers and staff, Copper Tip is only available by phone and email at this time. To book an appointment for assistance with any plumbing and heating emergencies or to make changes to an existing one, call them directly. They recommend paying invoices over the phone via a credit cart or by e-transfer.
“Thank you to our loyal customers, we appreciate your patience. Our Copper-Tip team will continue to serve anyone experiencing plumbing and heating emergencies.”
Dominion Lending Centres - East Kootenay Mortgage
462 2nd Ave
250-423-1864
Dominion Lending Centres - East Kootenay Mortgage has been ensuring home owners of the Elk Valley have had access to all the mortgage products available at the lowest rates and best terms for over 18 years.
During these difficult unprecedented times Zonya continues to serve the community with purchases, renewals or refinances to facilitate budget adjustments and make payments more manageable if necessary. Rates continue to be very low.
“Together we will get through these difficult days and the amazing community spirit we are known for will prevail.” Contact Zonya via phone, email at zonya@ekmortgage.caor online eastkootenaymortgage.ca.
Elevation Showcase
598 2nd Ave
250-423-3709
Elevation Showcase has modified its business to ensure customers can continue to peruse and purchase the items in store. From FaceTime “live” shopping, to call in ordering and pick up, to the regularly updated website showcasing the new spring and summer attire and gear… they’ve made it safe and fun to shop local! Visit elevationshowcase.com and get in touch directly with any questions.
"Community. It’s probably our single most favourite thing about living in Fernie. This says a lot, given the incredibly beautiful mountain playground that we live in! We love to give back by participating in and contributing to groups, movements, events, fundraisers and all of the things that Fernie is known for. Right now, we are especially grateful for the support we are receiving as a small business in a difficult time, it means the world to us, thank you Fernie, we love you!” Owners Lance Edwards and Christy Sutherland.
Edge of the World
421B 2nd Ave
250-423-9292
Edge of the World remains open for on-line shopping with free contactless delivery for Fernie and Sparwood. During this time, Edge of the World decided to close the store front and continue on-line sales at edgeoftheworld.ca. As a thank you for supporting the shop, Edge is having a weekly draw prize for everyone that purchases any item on the on-line store. Those who have made purchases from April 8 to May 30 will also be entered into the larger draw of a new snowboard! To keep tabs on what the prize of the week is, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Elk Valley Furniture Studio
441C 2nd Ave
250-423-0560
Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, Elk Valley Furniture Studio doors is closed at this time, however they are servicing customers by appointment only from 11am to 4pm Monday though Sunday. With over 5000 sf of showroom space they have a large selection for you to view and shop when you come in for your private shopping appointment. Deliveries are still free of charge to Fernie, Sparwood and Elko.
The team is practicing safe social distancing and safe cleaning schedule before and after each appointment for the safety of their customers.
Visit evfurniturestudo.com to browse through all the brands they carry and don’t hesitate to contact Jody or Joe to make an appointment.
Jody: 250-423-8624, Jody@evfurniturestudio.com
Joe: 778-952-4847, joe@evfurnitrestudio.com
They are also available on Instagram and Facebook.
Essential Yoga Studio
761 7th Ave
250-423-9672
Essential Yoga Studio continues to offer a variety of interactive classes online via zoom for minimal cost, as well as free classes on their YouTube channel. They are also offering workshops and other great places for you to continue with your practice and deepen your knowledge of the spiritual tools of yoga.
This May, join the Core Challenge! Do ten yoga classes in 21 days and receive a unique face mask. Visit essentialyogastudio.com for more details.
Fernie Alpine Resort
skifernie.com
Maybe it’s the mountains, the river and forests, or the fresh air – but Fernie-ites are something special. Visitors to Fernie praise the friendly locals, a consistent message that FAR staff receive from resort guests year after year.
But Fernie is more than friendly. Over the past weeks, the community has banded together, looking after each other, offering help to those in need, and saluting the essential workers who are keeping the town safe and healthy.
During these unprecedented times, Fernie Alpine Resort is following the recommendations of the BC Provincial Health Officer. With social distancing measures in place, resort staff continue to plan and work on required projects to ensure that the resort is ready to welcome its community back to the mountain.
Until then, Fernie Alpine Resort thanks the community of Fernie for supporting and being kind to one another – stay safe!
Fernie Cardlock
1592 9th Ave
250-423-7205
The Fernie Cardlock remains open for your fuel needs 24/7, but ask all customers to respect physical distancing by allowing the other customer to finish refuelling before starting their transaction. If you don’t have gloves or sanitizer, they have bags that can be used to protect your hands. “If it’s good enough for poo…” (who doesn’t like a little dog poop humour during a pandemic?).
Every month Fernie Cardlock donates 4¢ per litre of fuel purchased using Interac Debit. For the month of May your purchases will be supporting the Fernie Fresh Food Share. The Fernie Fresh Food Share redirects food that would otherwise be heading to the landfill to the people in our local community.
No account is needed to use the Fernie Cardlock. They accept Visa, Mastercard and Debit. 100% locally owned and operated!
Fernie Fox Hotel
2021 Hwy #3
877-447-6788
The Fernie Fox Hotel is the recently rebranded hotel property of Jeremiah and Marina Pauw. As long time owners of the hotel, the rebrand is their opportunity to focus on delivering a better guest experience and provide them more opportunities to be involved with, and support, local events and charities. Their involvement with supporting local events from Wam Bam Dirt Jump Jam, to scholarships for employees, to helping fund the fencing of the Fernie Railyard Off-leash Dog Park area has shown a consistent commitment to the community.
In following this community-first ethos, with the outbreak of Covid-19 they have made their hotel available to any front line essential worker or healthcare professional who needs a place to stay so they can isolate themselves. They have graciously offered the rooms free of charge.
Visit ferniefoxhotel.com, or email stay@ferniefoxhotel.com for more information about the hotel, or the offer.
Fernie Salvation Army
741 2nd Ave
250-423-4661
In these uncertain and challenging times, the Salvation Army Fernie is still offering its Food Bank and Food Share programs with some slight changes given the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Food Share is open to everyone without restrictions or questions. This is a program where food recovered from grocery stores and other commercial enterprises is provided without cost in their facility. The hours for this program are Monday and Friday 11am -1pm and Wednesday 4 - 5:30pm.
The Food Bank is a program in which they provide food hampers to persons and families in need.
The food bank operates Tuesdays-Wednesday and Thursday 11am - 1pm. Call 250-423-4661 if you require additional information and or assistance.
Freshies Cafe
632 2nd Ave
250-423-3833
Freshies continues to be open every day from 7am-2pm offering takeaway and online ordering for pickup and delivery… and they say they’ll be open for as long as they can because a little dose of normality really helps sometimes.
Link here : freshiesfernie.com/order-online
To get people baking, and sharing their efforts, Freshies has also launched the Great Fernie Bake Off. There are still a few weeks left to run, find them on social media to take part, and then secretly drop off your baked goodies on your friend’s doorstep.
Instagram: @freshiesfernie Facebook: @freshiesferniecafe #greatferniebakeoff
GearHub
401 1st Ave
250-423-5555
GearHub is committed to its customers and their health and well being. They are taking serious measures to meet, and exceed when possible, all PHO health guidelines and have been inspected by local officials who are ensuring that all Federal and BC health policies and protocols are in place for the health of their staff, customers and community.
Gearhub is operating with reduced hours of 10am to 5pm daily. Their online store gearhub.ca is open 24/7 and always has amazing deals, with free pick-up in-store and free local delivery upon request.
Gearhub will cater to most any customer requests or requirements.
"We offer a range of shopping experiences from in-store to contactless and everything in between to accommodate personal comfort levels. Please call or email us if you have any questions or requests,” says Mark Hall, owner.
Gina Rino Fernie Family Acupuncture
ginarino.ca
250-899-4120
Gina would like to extend a thank you to all the essential workers keeping our mountain community going during these uncertain times.
Gina is offering her support to the Elk Valley via tele-health wellness consults to existing and new patients. All consults are by donation where all proceeds will go to the Elk Valley Hospital Foundation.
With 20 years in the field, Gina has gathered experience in all facets of Holistic East Asian Medicine. With specialized studies in acupressure, Qigong, meditation, local foraging, vitamin therapies, and nutrition, customized telehealth wellness consults are inclusive for all.
Gina is glad to be back in the mountains and passionate about helping the Elk Valley community through this difficult time. We will get through this, together.
Giv’er Shirt Works
672-A 2nd Ave
250-423-6615
It’s ironic that the community month aligns itself with this crazy time in our lives. Now more than ever, an elevated sense of community is what we should all be striving for. When Giv’Er first opened in 2003, it was the community that allowed them to succeed. People in the Elk Valley gave them a chance and supported this new local business. Why? Because community matters to the people of Fernie and the Elk Valley. “We’re proud of where we live and we love to show it off to our friends and family,” say owners, Kieran and Erin Summers.
When things slowly return to normal, our community will be vital in returning the small business economy to its former glory. “Some of us have been kicked down the ladder a few rungs, but with community support we’ll be able to climb back to the top.”
Check out Giv’Er Shirt Works’ retail store online, including the ability to purchase branded and personalized masks at giver-shirt-works.myshopify.com/.
Happy Cow
561 Hwy 3
250-423-8381
"There’s something special about holding a fresh copy of the new edition of the Fernie Fix. It’s a great souvenir/keepsake for so many people that live here, have lived here, and those who have visited here. We are glad we will still be able to get our Fernie Fix in the future even if it’s a different format. It’s a real anchor in our community, keeping us entertained and connected.
There are so many groups and businesses adapting and flowing with the current times. We are all in the same boat, and we will weather this storm,” say owners Wendy Lyn and Dan Worth.
Wendy and Dan are grateful to be able to continue serving the community handcrafted ice cream and sorbets. Happy Cow is open for takeout daily from 12-8pm, and offer deliveries Fridays and Saturdays. Currently on offer are pints, litres, 2 litres, ice cream and sorbet cakes, and ice cream sandwiches.
"It’s wonderful to be able to share some Happiness and joy in this amazing part of the world. We wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Fernie rocks! The Elk Valley rocks! Kootenays rock!”
IGS Value Drugmart
441 2nd Ave
250-423-4511
In response to the Covid-19 crisis, IGS Value Drugmart has implemented operational changes with the goal of keeping everyone healthy while continuing to provide pharmacy and retail services to Elk Valley customers. Operational changes include maintaining appropriate distancing, sanitizing after each transaction, and allowing one customer to enter the store at a time. Store patrons will be asked to wait in the entrance while staff get what you need. Services offered include prescription and personal shopping services.
Call to order your prescription and/or provide your shopping list. Staff will have your products ready for pick up at the front door. You can also provide credit card details and staff will process orders before pick up. Visit their facebook page for more information on great items to enjoy while spending time at home. facebook.com/IGS-Value-Drug-Mart-170147223079065/
Island Lake Lodge
islandlakelodge.com
“We hope you are staying safe in these challenging times. Stress is at an all-time high for us all these days and we count our lucky stars that we are surrounded by nature and beautiful scenery. Though none of us have experienced something like this before, we are all resilient and will survive this and be stronger for it. The mountains and nature will be there for us when this is over, as we will be at Island Lake Lodge. Though we don’t know what our summer business will look like yet, we will try hard to offer the most we can, given the ever-changing situation. For now, stay home and be safe, dream about mountain adventures and we will look forward to seeing you at some point soon.” ~ The Island Lake Team
Infinitea
501 1st Ave
778-519-5258
Infinitea has always had an emphasis on homestyle comfort food. When the restaurant restrictions were put in place and people were encouraged to stay home as much as possible, they decided to shift to heat at home meals. These meals are hearty one-pot meals like curries, chilis, and stews that come in freezable, microwaveable containers so people can have cooked food ready whenever they need.
Infinitea felt this format would help those with limited cooking facilities, limited time or people that simply weren't used to cooking every day. They are affordable at 24oz-$13 and 16oz $9 with new items for pick up Wed-Sat 4pm-10pm or delivery over $50. Infinitea is still doing limited hot take out and their famous $10 Roast Dinner for pickup every sun 6-9pm by text. Find their menu on their Facebook page - facebook.com/InfiniteaTBarBoutique/.
Isosceles Business Solutions
992 8th Ave
250-423-1037
Isosceles Business Solutions has been providing IT and tech support to Fernie and the surrounding area for over 25 years. Having grown out of his parents’ garage, Ryan and Laurel Doehle now operate one of the largest IT solutions providers in the Kootenays. They have been actively involved in minor hockey for a number of years, and continue to support many local organizations and charities.
With the increase in demand for remote and work-from-home solutions, Isosceles is uniquely situated to help businesses and organizations of any size achieve their needs. They are also able to help individuals who may require assistance with hardware or connectivity issues.
To contact Isosceles, please visit their website - isosceles.ca, or call them in Fernie at 250-423-1037.
Noresca
noresca.ca
250-531-7364
As a family-run Structural and Civil Engineering Consulting business, Noresca would like to send out a heartfelt thank you to all the essential service workers on the front lines.
“In the spirit of working through this together, know that from one family to another, we are dedicated to serving you during and through this time in a safe and mindful way,” says owner, Robert Greczko, P. Eng, MBA, PMP
Noresca continue to abide by the pillars that have always motivated their business philosophy and practice:
1. Well-written contracts and drawings.
2. A thorough plan.
3. Good contractors – it’s worth the investment and stimulates our city’s economy.
4. Value Driven Engineering.
5. Experienced Project Management that will look out for your best interests.
They look forward to workingwith you and helping the community thrive through these uncertain times.
Not So Social Sam
Not-So-Social SAM(Sew AMask) is a homemade mask-sewing initiative started by Annica, Tyra and Jessica Collombin. The objective is to inspire others to create their own masks, and to share them safely with the community.
Not-So-Social SAM is a call to action and a way for people to feel connected, while doing their part to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Each of the Collombin women are using their specific skills for the project: Annica, a former clothing designer, is sewing the masks; Tyra, the owner of digital design brand Ridge Line Designs (formerly ArtbyTyra) is doing graphic design/ managing social media; Jessica, a sales/ marketing professional is handling the communication and awareness. They are using social media to provide tutorials and as a place to collaborate on ideas, including no-sew options.
Follow Not-So-Social SAM on Instagram @not_so_social_sam and Facebook facebookcom/notsosocialSAM
Polar Peek Books
592 2nd Ave
250-423-3736
At this time Polar Peek Books and Treasures is offering on-line and phone in orders with pick-up at the front door Monday through Friday from 10am-2pm. They are also offering free no contact delivery within the city limits for those who are isolating at home.
Visit their new webstore at polarpeekbooks.ca where you can access their puzzles and all of the books available either in-store or for special order.
Polar Peeks is currently all stocked up on puzzles, games and children’s activity books.Give them a call or email today to order what you need to keep busy at home!
The staff at Polar Peek would like to thank everyone who has continued to support Fernie’s independent bookstore over the last few weeks. “We really appreciate youshopping local and thanks to you, we have continued to stay busy.”
Regional District of the East Kootenay
rdek.bc.ca
The safety of their staff and the public is a priority for the Regional District of East Kootenay.While their doors are closed, they’ve come up with other ways to connect and maintain essential services. Some staff are working remotely while others are socially distant at the office or out in the field. Board meetings have transitioned to being held electronically, and are still open to the public via virtual platforms linked on the agendas page of the RDEK website. The RDEK salutes our healthcare workers, essential service providers and the wonderful, caring community we have as we all support each other through this.
When we as a community work together to make these short-term sacrifices, we will all be better off in the long run.
Rooftop Coffee Roasters
492 2nd Ave
778-519-0789
Rooftop is now offering curtsied ordering and pick up at the Rooftop Coffee Bar. The process is - visit rooftopcoffeeroasters.com/orders and click on ‘curbside.’ Place your coffee, pastries and/or beams order and pay online. Your order will be ready within 15 minutes and waiting for you to pick up just outside their front door!
Spirits Cold Beer and Wine Shop - Park Place Lodge
742 6th Ave
250-423-0685
Due to the Covid-19 situation, Spirits Cold Beer & Wine Shop has updated hours of operation from 10am to 8pm daily. Customer and staff safety is their priority and with their updated ‘Walk Up Drive Through’ operations, customers can experience a convenient and completely contactless transaction. Please call to place your phone orders in advance so you can grab and go! Visit their website for a digital catalogue of all products available and information on how to conveniently purchase products.parkplacelodge.com/spirits-cold-beer-wine-shop
Stick and Stone Cannabis Co.
891 7th Ave
250-423-8718
Spring break this year was a whirlwind to say the least. The staff at Sick and Stone has tried their absolute best to responded to the Provincial Public Health Emergency with grace, courage and a smile.
They have reduced the shop space from 1200 ft2 to exactly 39 ft2 while only allowing only customer in at a time. The Province implemented policy change allowing to utilize the Click and Collect option which was very well received by our community. This essentially reduces the amount of time customers spend in store and with the tap option can be contactless.
As new business owners, in a brand new industry they are grateful to be deemed essential providing a safe regulated product to our community.
“Community is everything and our community is something to be proud of!We really love supporting local by making purchases to the businesses that provide the option. Stay safe, Fernie.”
Valley Vitals
250-423-9695
Valley Vitals is a budding new business that is passionate about growing local, organic food. This summer, they are proud to be offering a community supported agriculture (CSA) program. Valley Vitals will be offering weekly door-step deliveries; the food boxes will contain seasonal fruits and veggies, eggs, and poultry. All of the produce and poultry will be grown in Fernie or Elko using “Beyond Organic” techniques. The weekly deliveries will also include the opportunity for residential compost pick-up.
To learn more about Valley Vitals CSA program, their composting program, or other community sustainability projects you can visit Valley Vitals Facebook page @ValleyVitalsFernie or follow them on Instagram.