Bellevue Mines Executive Director resigns

Toni Lucas, Pincher Creek Voice

Diane Petersen is seeking new challenges
T. Lucas photo

Bellevue Underground Mines Executive Director Diane Peterson has decided to pusue other options and has recently tendered her resignation.  Officially her last day at the mine will be Friday, June 1, 2012.  Peterson started working full-time at the mine in 2005.  She was already familiar with it, having previously worked there when it was under umbrella of Frank Slide.  "I actually worked for Frank Slide, and at that time, when you worked for Frank Slide, you covered all the sites.  We did Bellevue Mine, Leitch Collieries, Frank Slide, and Hillcrest, so altogether I've been here quite a few years at the Bellevue Mine."

"I believe it is a good time for for a transition.  It will let them get another person in that will take them in a whole new direction.  I have given then the best that I have to give.  I am not able to put in the long hours that I once did, because I have family living here now, and I want to spend more time with them.  I think it is an opportunity for them to enjoy the efforts of a younger person.  Someone to take them in a new direction, while maybe a more conventional 9 to 5 job is more for me, now."

Peterson feels confident that even though her leaving will force some changes, the function of the mine will be in no way diminished.  As well as the Board of Directors and staff, the mine has dedicated volunteers.  Roy Lazzarotto, a retired miner, has been Diane's go-to guy for keeping the mine safe, and functional, and is still keeping involved as his health allows.  "He did all the restoration the mine.  He's just magnificent, and he was here long before I was.  He is still my authority on everything.  He gives me information, technical support, and advice all the time.  He has been involved with the mine longer than I have," Peterson said, laughing.

Peterson has been offered other job positions after she tendered her resignation.  "I am very lucky.  Jobs are hard to find right now, so I am very, very lucky. I will work hard, wherever I go."

"I feel that I have achieved most of the goals that I set for this place.  I hope that I have left everyone here with good memories."