Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine July 2017 issue by Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

July 2017 edition

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July 2017

Contents 4 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 16 18 20

News briefs Mt. Begbie Brewing Co. is the best in Canada! Snowbirds to soar about the ‘stoke in July Revelstoke Mountaineer events calendar Checking in with Bikes, Beers and Babes Women’s technical MTB riding inspires Artist profile: Vistige pottery Spokin’ Word: Plan your alpine bliss now Feature: William Eaton captures Revelstoke’s amazing auroras SUP life: Try these amazing paddles for all levels Revelstoke Paddlesports Association launches

21 22 24 27 29 30 31 34 35 36 38

Ride the Illecillewaet with Apex Rafting The Adventure Buddy Chronicles Canada 150: Our timeline of 150 significant events from Revelstoke history How to: First Nations greetings Getting kids to yes on healthy eating Housing: Solutions for a more affordable Revelstoke New Eagle Pass Heliskiing Lodge takes flight Profile: Fine milling operation Take to Heart Our summer wine picks Wild Blue Yonder floats into Revelstoke Revelstoke Mountaineer Instagram contest

Cover: Revelstoke illustrator Claudia Bambi created our first ever cover illustration in honour of Canada’s 150th! Image: Claudia Bambi

The Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is a free monthly magazine featuring the best of Revelstoke outdoor life, food, style, visitor experiences, lifestyles, entertainment, home style, and healthy living.

Creative Director Aaron Orlando

Each month we distribute free copies to over 200 public venues across Revelstoke, including accommodations, shops, restaurants, cafes, community centres, bars, and everywhere people meet. We are an independent, locally owned publication dedicated to showcasing our amazing mountain town and the great people who create the stoke.

Graphic Design Chris Payne

For more information, including details on advertising rates, please call, or visit our parallel online publication at www.revelstokemountaineer.com and click on the advertising tab. Phone: 250-814-8710 Mailing Address: PO BOX 112, 606 Railway Avenue, Revelstoke, B.C. V0E 2S0

Contributors (L to R) Fraser Blyth owns Selkirk Planning & Design and works as a community planner and urban designer in Revelstoke. He’s a working dad who loves his job, snowboarding, the Maple Leafs and punk rock. Bryce Borlick is a world traveler, outdoor enthusiast, and urban refugee whom you’re most likely to find wandering the mountains in search of nothing in particular. With an unruly interest in sustainability and permaculture, he may be the only person in Revelstoke dreaming of one day doing burnouts in an electric F-250 towing a tiny house. William Eaton moved to Revelstoke in ’94 after falling in love with the town and the mountains. William works as a machine operator full time and shoots photos as a hobby. Robyn Goldsmith is an outdoorswoman who moonlights as a lawyer. She is an active member of the Revelstoke Cycling Community as a leader for Bikes, Beers, and Babes as well as a director for the Revelstoke Cycling Association. Heather Hood aspires to never be too serious, see the wonderment in every day life and take advantage of any opportunity to rhyme. She can always find an occasion to drink bubbly and has a great passion for wine. Eliisa Tennant: Born with adventure in her heart and raised in Revelstoke, Eliisa spends most of her time soaking up the mountain life. Whether it’s being on top of the world via snowmobile or paddle boarding on Lake Revelstoke Eliisa has true passion for the outdoors. She is happiest when found behind the lens exploring or writing about her experiences.

Rebecca Marchildon is a mother of two who is passionate about health, fitness & family! She studied Journalism Print, Group Fitness Instruction and is currently training to be a Health Coach through Integrative Nutrition. She’s the owner of Revelution Fitness & Yoga and eager to share her passion with fellow Revelstokians! Cassidy Randall splits her time between writing, moonlighting as a gypsy in foreign lands, and saving the world from toxic chemicals as marketing director for Made Safe. She loves to write about beautiful places and what it takes to get to them, badass women quietly and not so quietly taking over adventure sports, as well as mission fail, mediocrity, and all the hard things social media glosses over about outdoor adventures. Claudia Bambi is a graphic designer and illustrator based in Revelstoke. Her illustrations are designed to transport you to an imaginary world of wonderment. Bambi created the cover illustration for our Canada 150 issue. Sarah j. Spurr is a mixed media visual artist originally from the 705/Kawartha Lakes Ontario, and has been a Revelstoke resident for the past three years. Heavily inspired by the natural environment and her relationship with it. Stoked on all the things she’s discovering in British Columbia and the way these fresh influences have found ways into her home, heart and art-making. Melissa Jameson is the civic affairs reporter for Revelstoke Mountianeer Magazine and revelstokemountaineer.com. Contact Melissa with your news tips and story ideas at melissa@revelstokemountaineer.com 3

NEWS BRIEFS

Get the latest stories here, as reported on the revelstokemountaineer.com â&#x20AC;&#x201D; your daily source of Revelstoke news and information.

Bridge washout closes Trans-Canada in both directions A bridge washout on the night of June 8 closed the Trans-Canada Highway Camp Creek bridge between Revelstoke and Sicamous for two days. Revelstoke RCMP said the bridge was overrun by the creek around 11 p.m. on Thursday, June 8. That caused a buildup of debris to spill over the bridge, which is located about 25 kilometres west of Revelstoke. The highway was closed in both directions and traffic was rerouted through the Shelter Bay Ferry. Police warned motorists to expect significant traffic delays. The Shelter Bay route requires vehicles to cross two small ferries, which are bottlenecks during heavy traffic incidents. The Ministry of Transportation said the area received approximately 40 millimetres of rain over a short time period. Heavy machinery was brought in to assist with the clean up. June 8 washout of the Camp Creek Bridge. Photo: Chris Hrabb

Revelstoke city council shoots down request to impose tax on motorized recreational activities A request from the North Columbia Environmental Society to impose environmental fees, and stop or limit marketing of motorized recreational activities in Revelstoke got no love from city council. In a letter addressed to council, the North Columbia Environmental Society asked the city to establish an environmental fee on recreational burning of fossil fuels, which would then be used to reduce city carbon taxes. The following recommendations were made in the letter: -That the city not fund motorized recreation initiatives, and refrain from promoting or advertising motorized recreation tourism. -If the above recommendation is not possible, that the city commit to ensuring non-motorized recreation is promoted and advertised on a 4:1 ration with motorized recreation. -That the city charge $2.50 per day on Boulder and Frisby Ridge passes or $20 per year on annual passes. These environmental fees would go towards the City of Revelstoke and School District 19 carbon tax, and to fund environmental programming. -Funds could also be used to develop a sustainable economy. Revelstoke city councillors stated concerns over creating a controversy that could pit community members against each other. There were also concerns on whether the city is within its legal limits to impose the sort of taxation being requested by the North Columbia Environmental Society (NCES). Much motorized recreation activity happens outside city limits, and municipalities in B.C. are limited by provincial rules that dictate which taxes they can levy.

Photo: Steve Shannon photo courtesy Revy Riders

Scohol spelling mistake puts Revelstoke on the map The jokes were plentiful after the discovery of a newly painted ‘scohol’ zone road marking near Columbia Park Elementary in early June. The spelling error was quickly corrected, but not before photos of the misspelled school zone marking made the rounds on social media. The incident also garnered coverage from local and provincial news outlets, before going international — even making the BBC News website. While some people were upset about the misspelled sign near Columbia Park Elementary, an equal number took the opportunity to make jokes about staying in ‘scohol.’ At least one individual was willing to stick up for the workers responsible for the mistake. “Try to remember there is a person attached to that error. We all mess up sometimes, luckily, for most of us it’s not in such a public manner,” the person wrote. While the workers responsible might be feeling a little sheepish about making such a giant-lettered mistake it still provided most of Revelstoke with a good chuckle.

Collaborative hopes to get Revelstoke on-board with electric car travel Electric car travel in the Kootenay region could soon become more reliable. A collaborative aimed at expanding electric vehicle travel in the Kootenays is hoping to get the City of Revelstoke on board with its plan. Trish Dehnel with the Community Energy Association gave a presentation to city council about an initiative called Accelerate Kootenays at their May 23 meeting. Accelerate Kootenays is a community-driven collaborative strategy aimed at building a clean transportation network. Dehnel said that currently there are several barriers to making electric vehicle travel in the Kootenays a reality. These include lack of charging infrastructure, consumer awareness and understanding, and availability of electric vehicles locally. She also spoke about attracting additional tourism for communities such as Revelstoke if more charging stations were available. Currently, there are some charging stations in town. There are stations at the Best Western, at the Tourism Information Centre, and at a local campground. However, not all of them work with all vehicles, and some require that those using them to be customers at the business they are located at. As part of the proposed plan, the city is being asked to consider purchasing a charging station. Total cost for the station is $8,000 but the city would only need to invest $1,000 of the purchase price. Yearly maintenance costs after that would be minimal but could be recouped through collecting fees for using the charging station.

Tesla charging station at the Revelstoke Best Western. Photo: Melissa Jameson

Bredo pleads guilty to manslaughter Stacey Thur is relieved the healing process can begin, now that Joshua Bredo has been sentenced in the 2011 death of her son, Daniel Levesque. Justice Geoffrey Gaul sentenced Bredo to nine years less a day of jail time. Bredo will only serve two years less a day of jail time. At the time of his plea, Bredo had been in custody for nearly five years, and will receive a credit for having already served the equivalent of a seven-year sentence. Bredo pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the August 3, 2011 death of Levesque. Levesque was a well-known Revelstoke musician. Levesque had moved to Victoria in June, 2011 to further his music career. Bredo’s lawyer and crown counsel submitted a joint statement of facts where Bredo acknowledged his responsibility for the death of Levesque. The joint submission asked the court to impose a sentence of less than 10 years. In 2011, Bredo faced charges of second-degree murder over the incident. However, the charge was stayed due to a lack of evidence. In 2015, Bredo faced trial on charges of first-degree murder, sexual assault and unlawful confinement. The charges were dropped after Justice Malcolm Macaulay declared a mistrial, stating the matter wasn’t ready for trial. Members of Levesque’s family read impact statements at the Victoria Law Courts. Levesque’s mom Stacey Thur, father Stephan Levesque, and Levesque’s younger sister all read impact statements to the court.

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Tracey’s tips for new beer drinkers Tracey Larson says suggesting a beer for those new to beer drinking is like trying to suggest a type of lettuce to someone who has never eaten lettuce. d “You don’t know what they’re going to like,” she said. Instead, Larson suggests people dive right in. “Everybody thinks light beer is the gateway. There’s so much on the market. Find what makes your taste buds happy,” she said. If you’re interested in sampling the beers Mount Begbie Brewery makes you can check out their tasting room, which should be open later this summer (visit their website or call ahead before heading up). Make sure you try out their gold medal winning High Country Kolsch and Begbie Cream Ale.

Head brewer James Bell. Photo: Aaron Orlando

Mount Begbie Brewing Co. owners Bart and Tracey Larson.

“The philosophy is to always judge a brewery by their lightest beers, because you can’t hide the mistakes,” said Larson.

Mount Begbie Brewing Co. is the Canadian brewery of the year! Coo loo coo coo, coo coo coo coo! Revelstoke brewer is the best of the best in the Great White North!

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Mount Begbie Brewing Co. is riding a wave of popularity after earning four awards at the recent Canadian Brewery Awards in Ottawa. The Revelstoke based brewery’s top accolade was Brewery of the Year. They also brought home gold medals for their High Country Kolsch and Begbie Cream Ale, and a bronze medal for their Brave Liver Scotch Ale. Tracey Larson, business manager and co-owner along with husband Bart, said the response has been a bit overwhelming. “I forget. We’re so immersed in it,” she said. “Then there are the accolades and congratulations and I realize we are important to the community. People are aware of our achievements.” The two beers that brought home gold medals also happen to be the beers Mount Begbie has been making the longest. Begbie Cream Ale was the first beer produced by the brewery in 1996. High Country Kolsch made its way onto the list two years later. Larson said Mount Begbie was one of the first breweries to start making kolsch. Kolsch beer originated in Cologne, Germany. At the time there weren’t a lot of other Canadian breweries making the light beer that can sometimes be mistaken for a light lager or Pilsner. “It’s been a mainstay for us for so many years,” said Larson. “Many breweries avoid it because it is more complicated. It takes its own authentic yeast cultures. It takes longer to ferment and it’s a more delicate beer to produce.” The kolsch recipe Mount Begbie uses is inspired by Bart’s experience making home-brewed beer. The recipe has been translated into what is now High Country Kolsch. So why choose to brew a beer that many people at the time were unfamiliar with? “It’s what [Bart] liked to drink. It’s clean and refreshing. It’s a good go-to beer,” said Larson. “I think in a way we don’t always follow the trends. We brew things we want to drink time after time. Bart stumbled on this recipe and we could keep turning back to it.” High Country Kolsch is now Mount Begbie Brewery’s highest volume seller, followed by the Begbie Cream Ale. Larson said Nasty Habit and Tall Timber are catching up in popularity. Besides these mainstays (which also include Powerhouse Pale Ale), Mount Begbie also offers up seasonal beers. Larson said the seasonal beers are geared towards the actual season, meaning lighter beers are produced during the summer and darker beers during the winter. The 2017 Revelstoke Lager and Revelstoke Ale that were produced have already sold out. The brewery is planning to release a Pilsner soon and a stout beer is planned for later in the year. “Seasonal beers tend to sell out fast,” said Larson. “If seasonal beers prove to be popular they are sometimes added into the mainstay beers.” Larson said the seasonal offerings are a way to test drive new beers. Nasty Habit is an example of a beer that started out as a seasonal offering and was added to the brewery’s list of main stays. New for Mount Begbie Brewery this year is the creation of “beer series.” For 2017 the brewery created a fun heritage series that pays homage to the history of brewing in the Revelstoke area. “We used a Pilsner and a lager as inspiration. It’s an homage to the history of brewing,” said Larson. Larson said the seasonal and beer series provide an opportunity to have a bit of fun, but at the end of the day the focus is on their core products. The aspiration is to ensure the flavours are right and that the brewery is creating beers people want to drink again and again. “Our line up of core beers suits everybody’s needs. We make those a priority for quality and getting them right,” she said.

Snowbirds stoked to soar over Revelstoke this summer Canadian aerial acrobatic team’s stop in Revy will include an aerial display and several social stops where residents can rub shoulders with the pilots and crew By Melissa Jameson The Canadian Forces Snowbirds team are stoked to show off their piloting skills and fly over Revelstoke to help celebrate Canada 150 this July. If you’ve never seen the Snowbirds in action this is an event you definitely won’t want to miss. The Snowbirds have a spectacular show planned on July 26 that includes 11 planes soaring through Revelstoke skies to perform a series of fly-bys. “After seeing the scenic mountains and meeting the great airshow organizing team last week in Revelstoke, the Snowbird team can’t wait to perform on July 26. We loved the town, and the roller coaster, we can’t wait to be back,” said Capt. Paul Faulkner. The City of Revelstoke and the Columbia Shuswap

Regional District are hosting the Snowbirds during a two-day event on July 25 and 26. There are a number of events open to the public. You can help greet the Snowbirds when they arrive at the Revelstoke Airport on July 25. From 3:30–5p.m. the Snowbirds will host a meet and greet open to all members of the public. Meet the Snowbirds pilots and mechanics, and see the CT 114 Tutor aircraft up close. Flown by the Snowbirds, the CT-114 Tutor was used by the Canadian Forces as a pilot-training aircraft from 1963 until 2000. The Snowbirds are also spending some of their time in Revelstoke lending a hand towards fundraising for the Revelstoke Community Foundation. A Snowbirds Dinner is being held at Revelstoke Mountain Resort on July 25 from 6:30–9 p.m. Tickets are required for this event.

The highlight of the Snowbirds visit is of course the non-aerobatic air display taking place on July 26. A public viewing event will be held at Centennial Park from 2:30–5p.m. to make sure everyone has a chance to see the famous team show-off their spectacular skills with an air-display. A national icon, the Canadian Snowbirds team are made up of Canadian Armed Forces members, and National Defence public service employees. Pilots, technicians, mobile support operators, and engineering logistics offers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force come together to work as a team to bring their thrilling performances to the public. The Snowbirds act as ambassadors of the CAF demonstrating the high level of skill, professionalism, teamwork, discipline and dedication inherent to the men and women in the CAF. Becoming a Snowbird is no easy feat and all members have years of military experience prior to joining. Snowbirds team members are selected based on skill and experience. Aspiring Snowbird pilots take part in a demanding series of try-outs to evaluate their formation-flying proficiency. For questions regarding these events please contact Nicole Fricot by phone at 250-837-5345 or by email at nfricot@revelstoke.ca

REVELSTOKE

JULY 25 AND , 2017 Revelstoke Snowbirds July 26 25-26th, 2017 TH

IN CELEBRATION OF CANADA 150

The City of Revelstoke and CSRD are excited to announce we will be hosting The Canadian Forces (CF) Snowbirds. JULY

3:30-5:00PM Meet and greet with the Snowbirds at the Revelstoke Airport. 6:30-9:00PM Snowbirds Gala at Revelstoke Mountain Resort.

JULY

2:30-5:00PM Non-Aerobatic Air Display.

For questions regarding these events please visit www.seerevelstoke.com/snowbirds

July 2017 Events Calendar *Please check the event on the day as details may change. Monday, July 3 Summer Street Festival presents Maritime Kitchen Party & special guest @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Maritime Kitchen party perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Valley Social @ Last Drop Pub 9 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Valley Social is Revelstoke’s newest and hottest industry night every Monday at the Last Drop Pub. Canada Day Parade

Saturday, July 1 Canada Day Celebrations @ Various locations 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary. The day kicks off with a community pancake breakfast at 9 a.m. at Chubby Funsters. Kids bike decorating contest takes place in Grizzly Plaza at 10 a.m., followed by a parade from the Courthouse to Mackenzie Ave at 11 a.m. Official ceremony and cake cutting takes place at 12 p.m. There are plenty of activities planned for the rest of the day including a firefighters fit test showdown, and a formal Fire Department ball celebrating 125 years of fire service in Revelstoke. Farmers’ Markets @ Grizzly Plaza & Mackenzie Avenue 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Stock up on fresh veggies, crafts and more with Revelstoke’s two farmers’ markets. Summer Street Festival presents The Staggers & Jaggs @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9 :30 p.m. The Staggers & Jaggs perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Sunday, July 2 Genealogy Workshop @ Revelstoke Senior Centre 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Weekly genealogy workshop takes place at the Revelstoke Senior Centre. Summer Street Festival presents Parson Jazz Co-op @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Parson Jazz Co-op perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Tuesday, July 4 Summer Street Festival presents Jackson Hollow @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Jackson Hollow performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Bikes, Beers, and Babes @ Revelstoke Community Centre Parking Lot 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Join the Ladies’ Pedal and Pint Ride, meeting Tuesday nights in the parking lot in front of the Community Centre at 6 p.m. Post ride beers at the Big Eddy Pub. Quilt Display @ Revelstoke Public Library 4 p.m.–8 p.m. This will be the Revelstoke Quilters’ Guild’s third annual quilt display at the Revelstoke branch of Okanagan Regional Library at the Revelstoke Community Centre Wednesday, July 5 Summer Street Festival presents Johnny P. Johnson @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Johnny P. Johnson performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

circle time. For more information call 250-837-6669 or visit revelstokeearlychilddevelopment.com. Animal husbandry: goats and sheep @ Revelstoke Library 6 p.m.–7 p.m. . A peek into urban animal husbandry, including care of animals and a demo of goat milking with a chance to taste. Cash only event. $10 admission ($5 for LFI members). Pedal ‘N’ Pint @ Revelstoke Community Centre 6 p.m.–9 p.m. . Revelstoke’s longstanding Pedal ‘n’ Pint series is the weekly gathering of riders for a Thursday evening pedal. Meet up at the Revelstoke Community Centre parking lot and embark on a unique ride each week. Riders meet up at the pub for pints. Summer Street Festival presents Devon Coyote @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Devon Coyote performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Karaoke Night @ River City Pub 9:30 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Sing your heart out every Thursday night at the River City Pub. Friday, July 7 Summer Street Festival presents The Eisenhauers @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The Eisenhaurs perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Open Mic Night @ The Last Drop Pub 10 p.m. The Last Drop welcomes all jammers and singers. Come out and join in with a friendly relaxed atmosphere from 10 p.m. Thursday, July 6 Parks to Go @ Columbia Park Elementary School park 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Explore a new park with families each week. Everyone is welcome to join for crafts, games, light snack, and

Bike to Revelstoke BeeSee

Saturday, July 8 Take a peek at the bees @ email for directions. 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Bring your preschoolers out to see how bees make honey! The Revelstoke Local Food Initiative Little Sprouts Program is hosting a ‘Peak at the Bees’ with local Beekeeper Ron Glave. Email littlesprouts@ revelstokelocalfood.com for more information and to register your children.

Summer Street Festival presents Blackberry Wood @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Blackberry Wood perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Quilt Display @ Revelstoke Public Library 4 p.m.–8 p.m. This will be the Revelstoke Quilters’ Guild’s third annual quilt display at the Revelstoke branch of Okanagan Regional Library at the Revelstoke Community Centre.

Monday July 10

Wednesday, July 12

Cheese making @ Revelstoke Community Centre 4 p.m. Learn how to make homemade cheese. Kids class (ages 8-14) runs 4–5:30 p.m. Learn to make mozzarella $40. Adult class runs 6–8 p.m. Learn to make mozzarelle, burrata, and boconcinni. $65.

Summer Street Festival presents Nova Scotiables @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Nova Scotiables perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Devon Coyote

Summer Street Festival presents Chicken-Like Birds@Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Chicken-Like Birds perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Open Mic Night @ The Last Drop Pub 10 p.m. The Last Drop welcomes all jammers and singers. Come out and join in with a friendly relaxed atmosphere from 10 p.m.

The Devon Coyote Trio @ Last Drop Pub 10 p.m. The Devon Coyote Trio is a roots and blues infused rock and roll show.

Valley Social @ Last Drop Pub 9 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Valley Social is Revelstoke’s newest and hottest industry night every Monday at the Last Drop Pub.

Farmers’ Markets @ Grizzly Plaza & Mackenzie Avenue 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Stock up on fresh veggies, crafts & more with Revelstoke’s two farmers’ markets.

Bike to Revelstoke BeeSee @ Ron’s Beeyard 6 p.m.–8 p.m. Join the Local Food Initiative for an open house of their new behive called Revelstoke BeeSee. Local beekeeper Ron Glave will be providing an educational presentation, plus there will be a pot luck. Email info@revelstokelocalfood.com for more information.

Arrow Helicopters XC Fiver @ Lower Begbie Bench Parking 6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m. The Revelstoke Cycling Association invites you to participate in a fun, low-key evening mountain bike race. Expect to be racing for about an hour (shorter distances available). Cost is $5 (must be an RCA member to participate). Registration 6:15 p.m. Race Start 7p.m.

Summer Street Festival presents The OM Sound @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The OM Sound perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Sunday, July 9 Genealogy Workshop @ Revelstoke Senior Centre 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Weekly genealogy workshop takes place at the Revelstoke Senior Centre. Blackberry Wood

Tuesday, July 11 Downtown Walking Tour @ Revelstoke Museum & Archives 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Meet at the museum for a one-hour guided tour of Revelstoke’s historic downtown. Cheese making @ Revelstoke Community Centre 6 p.m.–8 p.m. Learn how to make homemade Greek style feta cheese. $65 Summer Street Festival presents Ben Sures @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Ben Sures performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Bikes, Beers, and Babes @ Revelstoke Community Centre Parking Lot 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Join the Ladies’ Pedal and Pint Ride, meeting Tuesday nights in the parking lot in front of the Community Centre at 6 p.m. Post ride beers at the Big Eddy Pub.

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Thursday, July 13 Parks to Go @ Farwell park 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Explore a new park with families each week. Everyone is welcome to join for crafts, games, light snack, and circle time. For more information call 250-837-6669 or visit revelstokeearlychilddevelopment.com. Pedal ‘n’ Pint @ Revelstoke Community Centre 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Revelstoke’s longstanding Pedal ‘n’ Pint series is the weekly gathering of riders for a Thursday evening pedal. Meet up at the Revelstoke Community Centre parking lot and embark on a unique ride each week.

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July 2017 Events Calendar Continued Heritage Cemetery Tour @ Mountain View Cemetery 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Meet at the Mountain View Cemetery gates, across from the Frontier Motel on Highway 23 for a 90-minute guided tour of the historic cemetery. If you need a ride, call the museum before 5 p.m. on the tour date. Dress for the weather, with good walking shoes, and be prepared for mosquitoes. Summer Street Festival presents John Jenkins’ Small Town Revival @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. John Jenkins’ Small Town Revival perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Karaoke Night @ River City Pub 9:30 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Sing your heart out every Thursday night at the River City Pub. Saturday, July 15 Farmers’ Markets @ Grizzly Plaza & Mackenzie Avenue 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Stock up on fresh veggies, crafts and more with Revelstoke’s two farmers’ markets. Summer Street Festival presents Class Action @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Class Action perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Sunday, July 16 Genealogy Workshop @ Revelstoke Senior Centre 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Weekly genealogy workshop takes place at the Revelstoke Senior Centre. Summer Street Festival presents Charlie Burton @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Charlie Burton performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Monday, July 17 Summer Street Festival presents Gabriel Palatchi Trio @Grizzly Plaza 6: 30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The Gabriel Palatchi Trio perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Valley Social @ Last Drop Pub 9 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Valley Social is Revelstoke’s newest and hottest industry night every Monday at the Last Drop Pub. Tuesday, July 18 Summer Street Festival presents Ben Rogers @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Ben Rogers performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Bikes, Beers, and Babes @ Revelstoke Community Centre Parking Lot 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Join the Ladies’ Pedal and Pint Ride, meeting Tuesday nights in the parking lot in front of the

Community Centre at 6 p.m. Post ride beers at the Big Eddy Pub. Quilt Display @ Revelstoke Public Library 12 p.m.–8 p.m. This will be the Revelstoke Quilters’ Guild’s third annual quilt display at the Revelstoke branch of Okanagan Regional Library at the Revelstoke Community Centre. Wednesday, July 19 Summer Street Festival presents The MNKD & Retrofile @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The MNKD & Retrofile perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Open Mic Night @ The Last Drop Pub 10 p.m. The Last Drop welcomes all jammers and singers. Come out and join in with a friendly relaxed atmosphere from 10 p.m. Thursday, July 20 Parks to Go @ Big Eddy park 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Explore a new park with families each week. Everyone is welcome to join for crafts, games, light snack, and circle time. For more information call 250-837-6669 or visit revelstokeearlychilddevelopment.com. Pedal ‘n’ Pint @ Revelstoke Community Centre 6 p.m.–9 p.m. . Revelstoke’s longstanding Pedal ‘n’ Pint series is the weekly gathering of riders for a Thursday evening pedal. Meet up at the Revelstoke Community Centre parking lot and embark on a unique ride each week. Riders meet up at the pub for pints. Summer Street Festival presents The Wooden Horsemen @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The Wooden Horsemen perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Karaoke Night @ River City Pub 9:30 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Sing your heart out every Thursday night at the River City Pub.

Stock up on fresh veggies, crafts & more with Revelstoke’s two farmers markets. Summer Street Festival presents Nice Verdes @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Nice Verdes perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Rumble in the Jungle 3 @ Englishman Boulders 10 a.m.–6 p.m. The third annual bouldering competition at the Englishman Bounders, Revelstoke BC. $5 entry fee. Registration forms available at www. revelstokebouldering.ca/events. Revelstoke Derailers Rollery Derby @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m. Come watch the Revelstoke Derailers take on the Killer Rollbots from Invermere in their final roller derby bout of the season. Tickets are $8 in advance from Ray’s Butcher Shop or Society and $10 at the door. Kids under 12 are free. Family friendly and beer garden area. Sunday, July 23 Genealogy Workshop @ Revelstoke Senior Centre 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Weekly genealogy workshop takes place at the Revelstoke Senior Centre. Summer Street Festival presents Partial to Pie @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Partial to Pie perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Monday, July 24 Summer Street Festival presents Class Action @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Class Action perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival. Valley Social @ Last Drop Pub 9 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Valley Social is Revelstoke’s newest and hottest industry night every Monday at the Last Drop Pub. Tuesday, July 25 Downtown Walking Tour @ Revelstoke Museum & Archives 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Meet at the museum for a one-hour guided tour of Revelstoke’s historic downtown.

Friday, July 21 Dr. Von Houligan’s Family Entertainment @ Queen Elizabeth Park 2 p.m., 4 p.m. & 6 p.m. Magic feats of balancing, juggling, fire breathing and more! Watch the kids from the circus camp perform at 2 p.m. Dr. Von Houligan and Green Fools perform at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets available at the Community Centre. $10 for adults, $5 for kids over 3, $25 for families. Summer Street Festival presents Under the Rocks @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Under the Rocks perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Saturday, July 22 Farmers Markets @ Grizzly Plaza & Mackenzie Avenue 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Walking tour

Summer Street Festival presents That Girl and Earl @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. That Girl and Earl perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival

Bikes, Beers, and Babes @ Revelstoke Community Centre Parking Lot 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Join the Ladies’ Pedal and Pint Ride, meeting Tuesday nights in the parking lot in front of the Community Centre at 6 p.m. Post ride beers at the Big Eddy Pub.

the creative talent to many artists displaying/playing/ creating their work within the garden environments

Snowbirds Air Show

Canadian Forces Snowbirds @ Revelstoke Airport 3 p.m. A meet and greet for the Snowbirds takes place at the Revelstoke Airport at 3 p.m. A reception/ Revelstoke Community Foundation fundraiswer will take place at Revelstoke Mountain Resort at 7 p.m. Quilt Display @ Revelstoke Public Library 12 p.m.–8 p.m. This will be the Revelstoke Quilters’ Guild’s third annual quilt display at the Revelstoke branch of Okanagan Regional Library at the Revelstoke Community Centre Wednesday, July 26 Summer Street Festival presents Zonnis @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Zonnis performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival

Pedal ‘N’ Pint @ Revelstoke Community Centre 6 p.m.–9 p.m. . Revelstoke’s longstanding Pedal ‘n’ Pint series is the weekly gathering of riders for a Thursday evening pedal. Meet up at the Revelstoke Community Centre parking lot and embark on a unique ride each week. Riders meet up at the pub for pints. Karaoke Night @ River City Pub 9:30 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Sing your heart out every Thursday night at the River City Pub. Friday, July 28 Summer swim & movie pizza party for kids @ Revelstoke Community Centre 5–8:30 p.m. Plan a night out for yourselves and drop the kids (ages 7-12) off for a fun night of swimming, pizza, and a movie. $20 Summer Street Festival presents Ewan Macintyre Band @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The Ewan Macintyre Band perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival

Thursday, July 27 Parks to Go @ Kovach Park 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Explore a new park with families each week. Everyone is welcome to join for crafts, games, light snack, and circle time. For more information call 250-837-6669 or visit revelstokeearlychilddevelopment.com. Heritage Cemetery Tour @ Mountain View Cemetery 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Meet at the Mountain View Cemetery gates, across from the Frontier Motel on Highway 23 for a 90-minute guided tour of the historic cemetery. If you need a ride, call the museum before 5 p.m. on the tour date. Dress for the weather, with good walking shoes, and be prepared for mosquitoes. Summer Street Festival presents Bruce Thomas/ Stacie Byrne/The Rev @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Bruce Thomas, Stacie Byrne and The Rev perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Farmers’ Markets @ Grizzly Plaza & Mackenzie Avenue 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Stock up on fresh veggies, crafts & more with Revelstoke’s two farmers’ markets. Summer Street Festival presents Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra @Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Sunday, July 30 Genealogy Workshop @ Revelstoke Senior Centre 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Weekly genealogy workshop takes place at the Revelstoke Senior Centre. Summer Street Festival presents Uncorked! @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Uncorked! perform at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival Monday, July 31 Summer Street Festival presents Sam Spades @ Grizzly Plaza 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Sam Spades performs at the Revelstoke Arts Council’s annual Summer Street Festival.

Canadian Forces Snowbirds @ Centennial Park 4 p.m. The Canadian Forces Snowbirds perform a nonaerobatic airshow. Public viewing for the event is at Centennial Park. Open Mic Night @ The Last Drop Pub 10 p.m. The Last Drop welcomes all jammers and singers. Come out and join in with a friendly relaxed atmosphere from 10 p.m.

LFI Farmers Market

Canada 150 Train

Saturday, July 29 CP Canada 150 train @ 420 Victoria Road East 3 p.m.–6 p.m. In recognition of Canada’s 150th birthday, CP invites communities to come together and celebrate. The event includes family friendly activities, and performances by Aboriginal hoop dancer Dallas Arcand, and country musician Dean Brody.

Downtown Community Garden

Garden and Art Tour @ various 1 p.m.–5 p.m. Hosted by the Revelstoke Local Food Initiative, the fifth annual Garden & Art Tour is your chance to tour a number of Revelstoke’s hidden gardens, and discover

Valley Social @ Last Drop Pub 9 p.m.–11:45 p.m. Valley Social is Revelstoke’s newest and hottest industry night every Monday at the Last Drop Pub. Street Fest runs every night from 6:30–9:30 in Grizzly Plaza. Photo: Aaron Orlando

*Please check the event on the day as details may change.

Photos on pages 12 and 13 of Bikes, Beers, and Babes by Robyn Goldsmith

Women together, riding trails

Bikes, Beers, and Babes grows stronger with every ride

By Robyn Goldsmith It doesn’t take a marketing professional to see that mountain biking is growing as a sport. Revelstoke alone has three thriving bike shops, an ever-growing network of diverse trails and a dedicated community of passionate riders. Like many adventure sports, it seems mountain biking is largely male-dominated. According to a 2010 report by the International Mountain Bike Association, a Canadian man was twice as likely to own a mountain bike as a Canadian woman. However, the mountain biking community has a growing scene of dedicated female mountain bikers, many of whom are seeking inspiration and support from other women.

I started mountain biking two years ago, and riding with other women is what kept me engaged with the sport. Since my first few tentative forays onto trails, I have found myself welcomed into the diverse and dedicated fold of mountain bikers that regular attend Bikes, Beers, and Babes, Revelstoke’s weekly ladies’ mountain bike ride. On my first ride ladies’ ride, I walked essentially the whole trail. As I pushed my bike over rocks and roots, I wondered how anyone could ever master Revelstoke’s trails. When I’d catch up with the group, I’d apologize for making the other women wait, and every time my apologies would be met with encouragement. “We’ve all been there,” I was told. I was consistently amazed at how welcoming and encouraging my fellow riders were. I’d been out riding with groups before, but the atmosphere of an all-women’s ride was decidedly different. I felt that I could take the time to practice skills, to ask questions, and to grow as a rider. Rather than being competitive, the feeling was one of encouragement, support, and challenge. We’ve begun referring to ourselves as the “After-You Crew”; no one is particularly concerned about out-pacing anyone else. My experience seems to be shared among my fellow female bikers. That feeling of warmth and encouragement is a large part of why women want to ride with other women. When asked why she likes riding with other women, a regular Bikes, Beers, and Babes attendee, Jenn McLafferty notes that there’s no pressure, it’s inclusive, and there’s no judgment. Mindy Skinner, one of the ladies’ ride leaders says riding with women is just different. “You feel less judgment and more patience. Women are really supportive, and it makes me so happy to see other women learning and encouraging one another.” Mountain biking in a comfortable and positive setting allows women to break free from their work and home lives to create an intentional community of like-minded individuals. For Jenn Avery, another regular ladies’ ride participant, mountain biking has an impact that goes beyond simply getting out and getting rad. To Jenn, mountain biking means “focusing on the now and learning to live in the moment — clearing my head and pushing my limits, whatever that is for me on that day. It means exploring places by only my own power, and growing stronger with every ride. It’s that perfect balance between control and letting go.”

Sylvie Allen and Emily Slaco of Sweet Skills run women’s bike clinics in Revelstoke in conjunction with Wandering Wheels. Sylvie says that she’s often asked why she runs women-only clinics: “It seems that women love to learn and be inspired by other women … and the

guys just aren’t asking as much for these learning opportunities!” Emily’s observation is that women gain confidence from knowledge, and that breaking down skills can help promote confidence on the trails. Revelstoke’s weekly ladies’ ride began in 2014 under the leadership of Kathryn Whiteside and Jayme Richardson. They started the ride at the suggestion of Skookum Cycle & Ski, and thought it would be a great way to connect women through biking, and to offer a group ride that was less intimidating for the average female rider. The ride is still going strong, consistently seeing groups of over twenty women this year. In a sport that is often dominated by men, women are finding their own way. Look for the ladies of Bikes, Beers, and Babes every Tuesday at 6 p.m. in front of the community centre!

Ladies get tech on the trails

Overcoming the rocks and roots of the Revelstoke ride

By Cassidy Randall I’ve been mountain biking in western Montana for ten years. I’m no slouch of a rider, let’s be clear. But when I relocated to Revelstoke, these technical trails turned me into Bambi on wheels. And in a town where you can’t throw a rock without hitting a professional athlete; I was suddenly the slowest and clumsiest biker in a 50-kilometre radius. I hated that. Full disclosure: I have this ego problem with not being immediately good at a sport. It originates from my days as a chubby, uncoordinated kid that was picked last for literally every team sport in school. Every time I feel less than capable at a physical endeavor, that little girl and all of her insecurities comes bubbling back to the surface — along with this persistent belief that if I’m not good enough at something, no one will want to play with me. I like recreating with both men and women, and mostly don’t even consider the gender factor in outdoor adventures. But there’s something about this deep-rooted insecurity that drew me to the supportive environment that learning from and with other women offers. And with a unique critical mass of women-focused riding opportunities, Revelstoke is a mecca for women like me looking to up their skills. I started with a ladies’ technical skills clinic hosted by Wandering Wheels, a household name on the Revelstoke biking scene offering clinics, camps, guided tours and some drool-worthy tenure for backcountry mountain biking adventures. They teamed up with Pemberton-based Sweet Skills to lead a series of women-focused jumps and skills clinics, and I was lucky enough to snag a spot on one — especially given the long list of credentials held by Sweet Skills founder Sylvie Allen. Allen welcomed me and 15 other women in the Nordic Lodge parking lot on a rainy Saturday morning. Small, strong, and sassy, she has that magic combination of patience and a deep breadth of skill that makes for effective mentors. Allen learned to mountain bike from chasing the guys, and was crowned Canada’s National Downhill Champion in 2002. From her viewpoint as champion, she observed a lack of women and girls in the sport, and set out to change those unimpressive stats. Now, she’s a go-to instructor for women all over

Canada, and she’s growing the ranks of female riders by the hundreds. Along with partners, she runs clinics and personal coaching through Sweet Skills, as well as North America’s only coached and guided women’s backcountry mountain bike camps out of the Chilcotins. And, I learned that day, she was launching the inaugural Sol Mountain Women’s Backcountry Retreat right here in the Monashees this August. I was determined to improve my technical riding skills enough to attend that retreat and make the most of some stunning alpine biking. I’d never been to a women-only clinic. Those girls were pushing and supporting each other simultaneously, with screams of “You got this!” and “Go, go, go!” punctuated by jokes and bursts of laughter. Combined with hilariously female-focused tips like “boobs to bar on the climb” and “think nips and knees on the corners,” the vibe of the day tamped down my uncoordinated little girl vulnerability and I actually allowed myself to learn. That said, I was still too insecure to appear at a Thursday Pedal & Pint. I hate being the one that people have to wait for, for reasons we’ve already covered, and I know many of the bikers who frequent Pedal & Pint ride at another level — both men and women. So I ditched my Tuesday slow pitch game to try out a Bikes, Babes and Beers women-only ride, hoping for a similar vibe to the clinic. I loved it. I want to skip every slow pitch game for those Tuesday night rides (don’t tell my team). All 26 of the women there were rad, ranging from veterans to newbies, out to spend time in each other’s company as much as to bike, and to earn their beers at the end by riding hard through the golden hour. The next morning, I signed up for the Sol Mountain Women’s Backcountry Retreat. I figured with another couple months of riding Revelstoke’s trails with some real technical skills under my belt and some women mentors to chase through the trees, those chubby little girl insecurities would have faded into memory by the time the retreat rolled around at the end of August. And in the meantime, maybe I’ll even be confident enough to try a Thursday Pedal & Pint. Because I’ve realized that now that we’ve grown up, no one really cares how good you are, as long as you’re willing to try. We’re all just in it to have fun. And maybe for the beers at the end.

Revelstoke potter Jacqueline Palmer. Photos this page by Sarah j. Spurr

The wilderness impressionism of Vistige Pottery Meet the maker: Jacqueline Palmer

By Sarah j. Spurr There must be some wise proverb relating to the righteousness of a friend who gifts pottery. Your ritual brew, suddenly fortified in an earth-loving alchemy when sipped from the lip of a generous, hand made mug. Luckily for us, Revelstoke potters and their one of a kind wares are abundant. A recent gift from a friend had me moved to meet the maker. Jacqueline Palmer is the eyes and hands behind Vistige Pottery. Her functional designs are recognizable by signature blends of ash glazes and inky, sometimes fleeting impressions of wildlife. Her colours marble between calm clay tones, to striking cobalts and splatters of juicy berry. Each piece is uniquely textured and resembles how reflections shapeshift over water. Jacqueline describes Vistige as a combination of forces. The name represents the current influence of life in Revelstoke and how it all places in the evolution of her pottery.

designs and she credits the ability to recreate the nature she’s inspired by, to a side practice of making small paint sketches en plein air. A simple kit she’ll bring with her while hiking includes: three tubes of watercolour paint, a palette (yogurt container lid), brush and some paper. “In 1984 I returned to B.C. where I met my husband, whose work has taken us to some unique and interesting communities throughout the province. Together with our family we have enjoyed wilderness canoe and hiking excursions. Wildlife encounters and scenery on these backcountry trips has provided me with invaluable inspiration for my pottery.”

Incorporating recycled material into her work has become an important ingredient for her to explore. She still uses ash in her glaze and is currently experimenting with large freestyle mosaic murals, making use of recycled clay, paper and retired pottery shards. When not producing staple drink or dinnerware she enjoys creating large expressive pieces for exhibition, which lend themselves to everyday life and environmental issues.

Jacquie was born on Vancouver Island and raised in Wollongong, Australia, where she first dug clay from the cliffs and creek beds to process and make sunbaked pots. In high school she fired and glazed for the first time and has been studying the art form ever since. She inherited her grandfather’s watercolours as a teenager, leading her to a lifelong love of painting. Free hand paintings are incorporated into her

Living simply, enjoying whole foods and growing fresh produce in the back garden are all values of the Vistige studio and home. Jacqueline is a good storyteller who will tell you from experience that “good adventures are never comfortable” and a woman true to her craft. She shares a hopeful and inclusive outlook about her local potting community. Together, she believes they play a strong part in what makes Revelstoke a destination for quality hand crafted goods.

- JP

You can find Vistige downtown at Art First! or in person at the weekly Saturday farmers’ market. Look for her piece in Canada 150 at the Revelstoke Art Gallery and for an installation at the Luna, Nocturnal Art and Wonder festival this September. Vistige.ca jacqueline@vistige.ca

Most of the wildlife depicted, Jacquie has seen first hand, with an exception to the elusive cougar — just paw traces — and commissions for exotic animals such as elephants. While living up north in Burns Lake, there was a pine beetle epidemic and so even the pine ash from burn piles left its mark in her imagery. In this remote setting she put countless hours into the development of her signature pine ash glaze technique.

“A scent, a mist, the prestige of nature A moment, a memory, the print of nature From dust, from clay, from ash With patience, with fire, with flame Arise, a reflection, a nuance of an impression This is the Vistige.”

“I love people to pick up my pots and have a good look at them. Experience!”

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bike trek back to civilization but it also underscored the magnitude of an area that’s both wild and pristine at the same time. I distinctly recall the radial engine hum of the DHC-2 Beaver fading into the distance, and leaving us all with a mixed sense of excitement, trepidation, and solitude. There were no high fives on that trip. Instead, we suffered rain and hail from passing storms, we endured relentless harassment from insects, we found routes overgrown and nearly impassable, and we carried and pushed our bikes, sometimes in silence, for more kilometres than we rode them. Still, the memories warm my soul. Falling naturally into the circadian rhythm of life. Appreciating little things like the luxury of a simple tent, a satisfying bowl of ramen noodles, or a hot coffee before the first rays of sunshine warm the morning air. Dreaming about being right there, right then, for the rest of my life. And, of course, sharing all of these defining moments with two close friends. Maybe, just maybe, there were a few high fives after all.

Seize those alpine dreams while it lasts

By Bryce Borlick

It’s official: it’s summer and it’s time to get high. The peaks that peer down on us all year are relinquishing their last vestiges of a very snowy winter and reminding us that the coveted summer alpine season is just around the corner. The window is small — probably just a couple months this year — so now is the time to dream up some trips and make them a reality. As I sit on a sun drenched riverbank gazing upward, my mind wanders back to summers past and time well wasted amongst the wildflowers. A few years back, two friends and I finally set aside our years-old excuses and threw down the credit cards for a three-week mountain bike trip to the Graubünden canton of the Swiss Alps, where bikes are permitted on virtually all hiking trails. We had high hopes that were vaulted even higher just a short ways outside of Zürich where towering peaks and jagged ridgelines rushed past our train windows and lush valleys with quaint towns invited us to spend a lazy afternoon. But what really caught our attention were the gondolas, oh those wonderful ubiquitous gondolas, that whisk riders up over 3,000 metres.

For 21 days we lived the ethereal dream of riding perfect alpine traverses and descents that wind through wild lunar landscapes and sublime alpine meadows, past thundering waterfalls and majestic glaciers, and down to decadent lunches of homemade strudel, strong espresso, and good Bavarian beer served by a cute fraulein. We took full advantage of the well-developed lift infrastructure to explore deeply into the high country and climb for a mere three percent of the thousands of vertical metres of stellar singletrack that we logged every day. This smorgasbord of trail consumption makes the Swiss Alps a virtual Disneyland for any alpine aficionado, and a destination that I’m stoked to have ticked off the list of ‘must rides’.

Alpine trips like these are the epics that get etched indelibly into one’s mind but that doesn’t mean that simple day trips to local destinations can’t deliver the goods. Amazing local opportunities abound: Frisby, Cartier, Joss, Martha, Keystone, and a host of others if you’re willing to work for it. So round up a few friends, put some cold beers on ice, and get after it. After all, alpine trail season waits for no one and once that window closes, there’s nothing left to do but look up and reminisce. Writer Bryce Borlick made the most of the summer alpine window with a European ride at the foot of the Matterhorn. Photos: Lee Lau

But genuine adventure and isolation is type-two fun that’s best dished up deep in the backcountry, and that’s exactly what we sought just a couple years later in the southern Chilcotin ranges of B.C. The floatplane that dropped us beyond the western boundaries of the provincial parks gave us a great scenic overview of the deep valleys and high passes we’d be covering in our five day

Capturing the Aurora in the Revy area Photographer William Eaton shares his tips for capturing the best Aurora photos in the region By Melissa Jameson Revelstoke photographer William Eaton is well known for capturing spectacular images of the Aurora Borealis. Known sometimes as the Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis paints the sky with an almost eerie spectacle of reds, yellows, greens, blues, and violets. Aurora Borealis is caused by collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun entering the earth’s atmosphere. Translation: they make the skies look really pretty. Want to see the auroras in Revelstoke? Here are some of Eaton’s tips: • • • • •

Head out of town. Eaton said the lights from the city can make it difficult to see the aurora. Get out to a place with a northern view. Eaton’s top picks for places to go include the 5 Mile Boat Launch on Highway 23 North past Revelstoke Dam, Boulder Mountain, and Sale Mountain. Pick a night where there are no clouds hovering above the city. Like the lights, this makes it more difficult to see the auroras. Look around. Depending on the level of activity it is possible to see auroras anywhere in the sky. More recently, it has been possible to see the auroras right in Revelstoke. Eaton explained that this could be because he has heard that once every 10 years the sun flares up, making it easier to see the auroras. Be patient. Eaton once waited six hours to see Aurora Borealis. Calgary photographer Richard Gottardo spent three months during the winter of 2013 camped in a tent in the mountains above Revelstoke waiting for the perfect moment to view and photograph Aurora Borealis.

“Lots of times I’ve waited overnight and I haven’t seen anything,” said Eaton. If you’re planning to take photographs of the auroras, Eaton offered the following tips: • • • • • •

Set your camera up in the right direction and find what’s working for you. Take some practice photos to figure out what works best for you. Use a tripod. The settings on your camera will vary depending on how you want your photos to turn out. Use a longer exposure time. The Canadian Space Agency recommends setting your exposure length to a minimum of 10 seconds. Eaton said he prefers using an exposure time of less than 30 seconds. Use a high ISO and low aperture setting. Conditions can change quickly so be prepared to change your camera settings.

All Photos by Bill Eaton This Page: One of the easiest, best and most accessible views of the Aurora Borealis in the Revelstoke area is from 5 Mile boat launch on Highway 23 North Next Page Top: The view from the Big Eddy Boulders allows you to capture Mount Revelstoke and Mount Mackenzie in the background. Bottom: For extra light flare, throw in headlamps or other light sources. Here, Jessa Burke, Katlyn Davies and Peter Digby ride under the glowing sky on Boulder Mountain.

Check out this waterfall on your way from the 5 Mile boat launch to Waterworld. Photo: Eliisa Tennant

SUP, Revelstoke?

The water’s warm, so it’s time to get out there. Our guide to local SUP hotspots.

By Eliisa Tennant Revelstoke is a flat-water standup paddleboarder’s dream. Our picturesque lakes nestled between snowcapped mountains, sandy shorelines, lush rainforests and rugged cliff faces create a diverse palette for exploration on your board. Stand up paddleboarding is a very low-impact sport that provides an entire body workout making it perfect for everyone regardless of their age or athletic capability. So whether you’re a beginner just wanting to get your feet wet or you have been riding a board for a while here is a guide to get you out in Revelstoke exploring everything this town has to offer from a different perspective.

Beginner Trips: Williamson’s Lake: Take a tour around this local family oriented beach to get your bearings on a paddleboard. If you’re uneasy about standing up initially, try paddling from your knees to build confidence on the board. This lake has beautiful views of Mount Begbie and lush greenery around the perimeter of the lake making it a scene and easy first paddle.

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Echo Lake: A short five-kilometre trip up a logging road leads you to this beautiful mountain lake. The water is calm and the lake is small in size, which is ideal for practicing your forward and back strokes and maneuvering the board while standing. On top of gorgeous mountain views, Echo Lake has minimal traffic ideal for those who prefer to SUP off the beaten path.

Intermediate Trips: Carnes Creek: Carnes Creek flows into Lake Revelstoke about 35 kilometres north of Revelstoke on Highway 23. Launch from the designated boat launch at the campground and round the corner to paddle under the bridge. From there you will head up a stunning creek and explore the shores of Lake Revelstoke at its finest. Experience the beauty of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. For an additional thrill head there early in the season and battle the current. To Waterword: One of the most scenic and coveted paddles in Revelstoke is a six-kilometre round trip launching from the boat launch directly behind the Revelstoke Dam on Lake Revelstoke. Keep to the right side of the lake for

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some of the most majestic scenery this town has to offer. A cascading waterfall located in an inlet and dramatic cliffs run along this section of the lake. When the water levels are high enough there is even a bench forged to the side of the cliff; the most perfect spot to take in Mount Begbie and relax to the sounds of lapping water.

Advanced Trips: The Columbia River at Eight Mile: Revelstoke is home to flat-water paddling — but head out on the Columbia River on a windy day and you’re in for a good time. Waves crashing over your board adds an element of excitement and requires extra skill to stay upright. If possible head out against the current to ensure you have enough energy to make your way back to the launch site. The David Thompson Paddleboard Classic: If paddling 125 kilometres over three days sounds like your idea of adventure look no further then the epic trip from Mica Dam to Revelstoke Dam August 18–20. This race includes participants from all paddlesports and follows the path of the Sinixt people as you paddle through snow-capped mountains and breathtaking scenery.

Paddle up Carnes Creek for lush, stunning views. Photo: Eliisa Tennant

Echo Lake is great choice for beginners. This small lake is warm and has no waves. Photo: Aaron Orlando

entry, and start spreading the love of paddlesports.” And the launch day at Martha Creek was a smashing success in that regard, if the scene from the beach was any gauge, with upwards of five canoes, 10 SUPs, and 12 kayaks on the water at any one point. Dozens of people waited on shore for their turn to try out vessels, passing the time playing music, introducing themselves to each other, and trading adventure stories. Canoe legend Bill Pollock, president of the association, quietly reigned over the afternoon between leading canoe clinics. Pollock is the mastermind behind the first major competitive event the association will host: the upcoming Dave Thompson Paddlesport Classic taking place August 18–20, a three-day race from Mica Creek to Revelstoke spanning 125 kilometres of paddling and portages — the longest paddlesport event in B.C.

Paddlers head out for kayak rolling practice at the Revelstoke Paddlesport Association kickoff at Martha Creek. Photo: Aaron Orlando

Spreading the love of paddling

New association launches to expand paddlesports community

By Cassidy Randall

I pull my skirt for the third time, and when I surface from the frigid water, I hear my personal kayak teacher shouting, “That was great! You were so much closer!” I don’t feel any closer to being able to roll a kayak, but at Martha Creek on a sunny Saturday with free gear, powerhouse volunteer instructors and a literal party on the beach waiting for me when I towel off, I couldn’t care less. The Revelstoke Paddlesport Association officially launched on June 17 with a bang. With a mission

to develop, provide, and promote recreational and competitive paddlesports events and activities around Revelstoke, the Association is a new rallying center for the town’s kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddleboarders (SUPers, to those in the know). Membership in the association is free this year. “Revelstoke has incredible watersport opportunities, but the scene here is still pretty small,” said Jacque Kelsall, one of the crew helping out with the launch and donating their time to pass on knowledge to newbies. “If you don’t have a lot of gear, paddling can be hard to get into. We wanted to change that by giving people an easy

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Pollock was joined in leading clinics by the likes of professional kayaker Katrina Van Wijk, coaching people on kayak rolls and paddling technique, and Carmen Legate with Stoke Paddleboard Adventures leading SUPers around the bay. Flexpeditions stepped up to provide boats, PFDs and wetsuits. Local paddlers also gave their gear and their time to accommodate the droves of people who showed up to play on the water. The association bookended the adventure-packed day at Martha Creek with film festivals for maximum paddlesport stoke. The international Reel Paddling Film Festival showed on Friday night, and people turned out in force to support Saturday night’s River Reels, full of flicks from local filmmakers. “I’m really pleased with this launch — we’ve had a better turnout than any of us expected,” Pollock said between tossing me tips on speed paddling from the stern of his racing canoe. “We might do more than one of these annually.” Good, I think. Maybe then I can finally get my roll down. In the meantime, maybe I’ll sign up for the Dave Thompson Paddlesport Classic and put my new racing stroke to work.

Ride the surging Illecillewaet with Apex Rafting Rafting company celebrates 25 years of river guiding in Revelstoke By Eliisa Tennant

As a self-proclaimed adventure seeker and resident of Revelstoke it was only a matter of time before I took the plunge and tried white water rafting. Enter Apex Rafting. Apex Rafting has been locally owned and operated since 1993. 25 years navigating the same 26 kilometres of the Illecillewaet River has brought countless thrilling tales and treated thousands of adrenaline junkies and families to a once in a lifetime experience. My experience was one for the ages and a day I will never forget. The day started with a casual and friendly greeting by owners Ralph, Debbie, their guide crew and staff members. After a brief rundown of what to expect for the trip outside The Regent Hotel we were handed all the necessary gear for the day: wetsuits, shoes, a fleece for added warmth and a splash jacket. A brief bus ride to the drop-in point on the Illecillewaet River covered safety issues and gear and gave instructions for what to do in any given scenario laced with humour. Once we arrived at the location we donned lifejackets and helmets, we were divided into

groups, given paddle commands then instructed to get into the raft. This is where the fun began! The stretch of river Apex Rafting operates on has 20 rapids and when our guide, Joe — aka Slippery Joe — pointed out the first rapid on the horizon the anticipation was palpable on our raft. Nervous excitement coursed through my body as we were instructed to paddle hard and then vanished completely in the thrill of entering the rapid. All at once there was a flurry of paddles propelling us forward in sync, the raft jostling us to and fro by the white water and cold splashes of water soaked us as we battled through that first section of rogue waves. The feeling of mutual exhilaration was clear on the faces of the others accompanying me on this adventure and we all quickly became fast friends.

Rafters try their hand on the Illecillewaet River. Photo: Apex Rafting.

The wild ride continued with us winding down the river with stunning views of Mount Revelstoke National Park. In between the screams of elation, and the rapids, Joe managed to squeeze in an abundance of information about Revelstoke that left even me — a life-long local —

learning something new about the area. The 3.5-hour trip was filled with some of the most thrilling adventure I have ever had in Revelstoke and it was amazing to get a different perspective on our beautiful inland temperate rainforest (see Joe, we did learn something!). Once we arrived at the pick up location, tired, happy, laughing and exchanging stories from our location in the raft we were given fresh fruit and delicious baked goods to refuel and recharge. It was a sweet ending to an amazing day. If you’re an adrenaline junkie or a family looking to have a unique and memorable experience in Revelstoke then Apex Rafting is absolutely a must-do on your list this summer. And if your time on the river whets your appetite for more thrill seeking then be sure to book one of their Raft Packages. Apex teamed with The Pipe Mountain Coaster, SkyTrek Adventure Park and Glacier House Resort to bring you even more adventure! For more about Apex Rafting, visit their website at www.apexrafting.com

Adventure Buddy Chronicles: Rachel By Eliisa Tennant My quest to find a part-time ‘adventure buddy’ has lead me on some awesome adventures with some incredibly fascinating people. I have taken newcomers to Revelstoke on tours to of some of the highlights our town has to offer, driven out of town to explore waterfalls and went on numerous hikes around our area. Most people haven’t resided in Revelstoke for very long, so it gives them an opportunity to explore with a local and I get the chance to meet the kind of people that this adventure based town is drawing in to call home: those with a zest for life. One of my most memorable experiences was a trip to hike the Enderby Cliffs with Rachel. After receiving a hilarious e-mail response to my adventure buddy job application, Rachel and I exchanged numbers and agreed to go on a hike. Looking to do something different and work up a sweat, I did some legwork and found the hike to the top of Enderby Cliffs. I arrived at her house on a Saturday to pick her up and we spent the ninety-minute drive getting to know each other. I was really impressed by her willingness to head out of town with a complete stranger to go for a hike. It was in keeping with her bold choice to move her entire life out west to chase her mountain living dreams. When we arrived at the parking lot for the cliffs, located just off Back Enderby Road, there were few vehicles there. The day was slightly overcast and the temperature was mild, which would be ideal for this 13-kilometre round trip hike rated as ‘more difficult.’ Don’t let the field at the trailhead fool you into believing this one isn’t going to be a challenge. Immediately the trail begins at an incline and there it stays for the remainder of the 6.5 kilometres to the cliffs. Along the way we laughed, sweated and crushed our glutes, all the while forging the foundation of a friendship. When we arrived at the top of the cliffs no words

Eliisa and her adventure buddy Rachel tackle the Enderby Bluffs trail. Photo: Eliisa Tennant

could’ve been exchanged as we took in the sweeping views of the valley hundreds of feet below us. Beams of sunlight cut through the clouds to illuminate the farmlands Enderby is famous for. The cliffs are wild and standing on the edge of one is enough to make anyone dizzy.

I dropped Rachel off at home and as she was getting out of the truck I knew at some point she would be climbing back into the passengers seat and that we would go on more adventures together and I knew that I had found exactly what I was looking for: my first adventure buddy.

For lunch we brought a picnic and dined amongst the blooming wildflowers in the cliff-top meadow before packing up and heading down. The descent felt like a relief and we made remarkable time back to my truck. The drive home brought more conversation, reminiscing about the beauty of the strenuous hike and future plans to go on more adventures.

The Adventure Buddy Chronicles is an ongoing series pairing born-and-raised Revelstokian Eliisa Tennant with newcomers to town. Together, they strike out on adventures and form new friendships. Interested? Email Eliisa at eliisa@revelstokemountaineer.com.

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Eva Lake, Revelstoke National Park - S Cross - September, 2013

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Happy Canada Day Revelstoke! See you at the parade! Photo: Aaron Orlando

Canada 150 timeline: 150 cool facts about Revelstoke you (probably) didn’t know 150 years already! Where did they go? We look back at 150 years of unique happenings from our history.

By Melissa Jameson To celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary the Revelstoke Mountaineer has compiled some interesting facts about Revelstoke. From Indigenous peoples’ lives in the area, to a gold rush, a police war, a newspaper war, a feature movie being filed here and more — there have been a lot of interesting things that have happened in Revelstoke over the past 150 years. Here is a list of highlights:

ploys as many as 15,000 Chinese men as labourers. The work was difficult and dangerous. Later, many of these men chose to settle in Revelstoke.

The S.S. Lytton is built in Revelstoke for $38,000 in 1890. It’s designed to be able to navigate the Columbia when waters are too shallow for other vessels.

In 1882, Major A.B. Rogers is paid $5,000 by the CPR for finding a feasible pass through the Selkirks. A year later he still hasn’t cashed the cheque. When asked why he responds: “I have had the cheque framed and it is hanging on the wall of my brother’s house where my nieces and nephews can see it.”

Revelstoke’s first permanent school is opened in 1889.

Prior to pioneers settling in the Revelstoke area, Indigenous peoples including the Sinixt, the Ktunaxa, the Secwepemc, and the Syilx use the Columbia River as a transportation route. They visit Revelstoke in the summers to harvest huckleberries, and again in the fall to catch salmon and Kokanee.

The driving of the Last Spike takes place at Craigellachie (west of Revelstoke) on November 7, 1885 completing construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The story goes that Donald Smith, who drove the last spike, bent the first spike. He managed to successfully hammer the second spike into place.

David Thompson completes his navigation of the Columbia River in 1811 and the fur trade opens up on the Columbia.

A camp is set up in an avalanche free area of Rogers Pass during the winter of 1885. Men stay there to study the paths of avalanches. This results in the construction of 31 snow sheds covering almost 9.6 km of railway track. Despite this avalanches still cause issues.

Revesltoke Fire Brigade race circa 1897. Photo: Revelstoke Museum & Archives

Mining is revived in Revelstoke during 1885 thanks to the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The North West Mounted Police establish a barracks and jail at what is now Douglas Street Hill. They are withdrawn after a little more than a year when the Riel Uprising takes place on the Prairies.

The Big Bend gold rush takes place in 1861. Gold commissioner W.G. Cox reports to Governor Douglas that the Kootenai (Ktunaxa) have told him of gold on the Columbia. By 1865 a gold rush is well underway in the Big Bend area north of Revelstoke. The townsite of Farwell is surveyed and Front Street becomes the centre of activity. Revelstoke’s first fire brigade is formed in 1882. Between 1880–1885 the Canadian Pacific Railway em24

A police riot breaks during 1885. NWMP attempt to enforce a federal law prohibiting the sale of alcohol, while magistrate Gilbert Sproat and Chief Const. John Kirkup try to withhold the sale of alcohol. Relations between the two police forces became strained, resulting in the ‘Farwell Police War.’ The town of Farwell is officially changed to Revelstoke on June 1, 1886. CPR builds its first permanent station in Revelstoke in 1887. It’s located at the east end of the platform and east of Revelstoke. In 1888, the S.S. Despatch, a 54-foot-long catamaran steamer is built by the Columbia Towing Transportation Company. The steamer is known for its unusual design with a bulky wooden cabin sitting on top of the steamer’s twin hull.

In 1890 Swedish miner Ole Sandberg uses his ‘Norwegian Snowshoes’ (skis) to travel into Revelstoke from his claims in Albert Canyon. The Canadian Pacific Railway starts construction on a branch line between Revelstoke and the end of Arrow Lakes during 1891. In June of 1894 high flood waters take out the bridges on the CPR branch line between Revelstoke and the end of the Arrow Lakes. Many miles of track have to be rebuilt. A 1894 report from the Kootenay Mail notes the Revelstoke Brewery is the largest of its kind in the Kootenays. The brewery ceased operation in 1900. There is a newspaper war in Revelstoke in 1895. The editor apparently locked himself into his office to print a paper telling his side of the story. Eventually he had to go and eat. When he did this the owners of the newspaper locked him out of the building and published a version telling their side of the story. Telephone service becomes available in Revelstoke in 1896. Revelstoke’s first courthouse is built in 1897. The two storey structure features five rooms on the ground floor and a court room on the second floor. A dam on the Illecillewaet River provides electric power to Revelstoke in 1898. The Revelstoke Opera House opens in 1898. Revelstoke is incorporated as a city on March 1, 1899. Frank McCarty becomes the first Mayor of Revelstoke in 1889. An avalanche demolishes Rogers Pass Station and seven people lose their lives in 1899. The oldest identifiable headstones at the Mountain View Cemetary date back to the late 1880s.

Revelstoke’s first indoor skating and curling rink opens in the year 1900. During the 1900s, many Norwegian and Swedish families settle in Revelstoke. They are instrumental in introducing skiing to the area. As of 1900 Revelstoke’s Chinese community is concentrated to two blocks on Front Street and Benson and King. The Chinese community includes two grocery stores, a laundry and the Chinese Joss House. The Revelstoke Cigar Manufacturing Company opens in 1901. The Revelstoke Hospital Auxiliary Society is incorporated in 1901. The original Queen Victoria Hospital opens (where Save-on-Foods is now) in 1902 The steamship SS Revelstoke is built for service on the Columbia River in 1902.

Moving to Revelstoke in 1913 didn’t cost much by today’s standards. When Dan Gawuik’s grandparents immigrated here they could purchase 40 acres of land for between $15 and $25. Over 600 men and about six women signed up for active service during World War I during 1914–1918. Over 100 of these men were killed. Mount Revelstoke becomes a National Park in 1914. New Revelstoke High School building opens (now part of Mountain View Elementary) in 1914. Revelstoke’s first Winter Carnival is organized in 1915. It including ski jumping on Mount Revelstoke. During the First World War there are 24 Interment Camps across Canada. More than 5,500 civilians from Eastern Europe are sent to these camps. A camp is set up on Mount Revelstoke between September and December 1915. At its height it had 200 internees and 75 guards. Connaught Tunnel is built to reroute Canadian Pacific Railway line through the mountains in 1916, bypassing the worst avalanche areas of Rogers Pass. Ski jumper Nels Nelson manages 183 feet after jumping off the newly built jump at Revelstoke National Park in 1916. First Trans-Canada airplane flight forced down at Revelstoke during a snowstorm in 1920. The plane landed on a field that is the site of the present airport. A 1921 census shows Revelstoke’s population to be 3,500.

Selkirk School was built in 1911. Photo: Revelstoke Museum & Archives

Highway opens from Revelstoke to Sicamous in 1922.

one-woman show at the Art Gallery of the Newcastle Exhibition. She is also sponsored by CPR to paint whatever scenes of Western Canada she likes. They are used by CPR as part of a marketing campaign to promote Canada overseas. Revelstoke Rotary Club began improvements at Williamson’s Lake during 1930. A Hollywood movie entitled ‘The Silent Barrier’ is filmed in Revelstoke in 1936. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) visit Revelstoke in 1939 Catherine (Bennet) Fraser cuts the ribbon for the opening ceremony of the Big Bend Highway in 1940, allowing cars on either side to proceed. Big Bend Highway from Revelstoke to Golden was opens on June 30, 1940.

Revelstoke’s first high school opens in 1904.

In 1949 the formerly named ‘Big Hill’ ski jump is rebuilt and renamed the Nels Nelson Ski Jump. At a prior competition visiting jumpers refuse to jump and a visiting judge deems the jump too dangerous, despite local jumpers making spectacular jumps off the original Big Hill jump.

A YMCA is built in 1906. It includes a gymnasium, bowling alley and indoor pool.

Prior to the 1950s there were more than 200 farmsteads from Revelstoke to 12 Mile.

Central School opens (on far end of Mountain View playing field) in 1903.

A horseracing track is built in Columbia Park on what is now part of the Revelstoke Golf Course. The first recorded ascent of Mount Begbie takes place in 1907 by Rev. Robert Robertson, Rupert Haggen, Rev. Dr. J. Herdman, and Swiss guide Edward Feuz. By 1907 there are a total of 13 sawmills in and around Revelstoke.

Queen Elizabeth II visits Revy in 1951 when she was still a princess. Photo: Revelstoke Museum & Archives

Paper cranes commemorate the 1910 avalanche disaster. Photo: Revelstoke Museum & Archives

The worst avalanche in Rogers Pass occurs on March 4, 1910. A total of 58 men are killed. Selkirk School opens on Sixth Street East in 1911.

Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) visits in Revelstoke in 1951 World record setting ski jumper Isabel Coursier. Photo: Revelstoke Museum & Archives

Agricultural Hall is built in Columbia Park in 1911. This is the current location of the Revelstoke Golf Club clubhouse.

Revelstoke female ski jumper Pat Coursier sets a world record on the Nels Nelson Ski Jump in 1922.

In 1912 it is announced a new Revelstoke Courthouse is to be built. The laying of the cornerstone building is a gala event and many businesses close early so people can attend.

Revelstoke Golf Course opens in 1924.

The brick Queen Victoria Hospital opens in 1913. Charlie Sing moves to Revelstoke in 1913. He had a Chinese Market Garden and was popular with many children. During the summer and fall he drove his horse and cart through the back lanes of town selling produce. When school was out, he often had children tagging along for a ride.

Current Big Eddy bridge was opens to traffic in 1924. Revelstoke’s second skating rink opens in 1925. Post Office and Customs Office opens at the corner of First and Boyle (the current Revelstoke Museum & Archives building) in 1926. The road to the summit of Mount Revelstoke National Park is completed in 1927. In 1929 Sophie Atkinson is the first woman to hold a

The Revelstoke & District Historical Association is formed in 1958 (now Revelstoke Museum & Archives Association). Estelle Dickey (who is known along with her husband for taking many photographs of Revelstoke) becomes the first woman president of the Chamber of Commerce in Revelstoke in 1959. Central School burns down in 1959. Visit of Queen Elizabeth II visits again in 1959. Operator Palaci starts to help mitigate avalanche threats in Rogers Pass. It is one of the longest running Canadian Forces operations, domestic or expeditionary in Canadian history. Rogers Pass Highway opens from Revelstoke to Golden in 1962. 25

Present Queen Victoria Hospital opens in 1970. Mica Dam opens in 1970. In 1972, 2,447 centimetres (80 feet) of snow falls on Mount Copeland outside of Revelstoke. This is the Canadian record for snowiest single winter. Snow levels were higher than many roofs. The old Queen Victoria Hospital (located where the current Save-on-Foods parking lot is), is demolished in 1972. The last patients leave in 1971. Revelstoke Museum and Archives moves to its present location on First Street in 1974. The last ski jump competition in Revelstoke is held in 1975. A decline in the sport and a lack of interest in the many hours to prepare the jumps are to blame. The Revelstoke Theatre Company forms as a society. Revelstoke Community Centre opens in 1979 The current fire hall opens in 1982. Selkirk School is torn down in 1983. Blanket Glacier Chalet is opened in 1983. It is the first self-catering backcountry lodge southwest of Revelstoke. Revelstoke Dam is completed in 1984. ‘Project 5’ is expected to go ahead. It doesn’t and many workers are laid off. Vintage skis at the Revelstoke Museum & Archives. Photo: Melissa Jameson

The current arena and curling rink opens in 1963. This is where you can go catch the Revelstoke Grizzlies Junior B hockey team. Mount Mackenzie skill hill opens in 1964. This is the present day site of Revelstoke Mountain Resort.

The Revelstoke Downtown Revitalization project is completed in 1985. This includes Grizzly Plaza. The first Farmers’ Market in Revelstoke is held in 1987. Macdonald Tunnel in Rogers Pass is completed in 1988. Revelstoke Railway Museum opens in 1993. Revelstoke’s Centennial Year takes place in 1999.

The former location of Revelstoke Secondary School opens in 1965. Revelstoke Secondary School has since been moved to a location nearby, and Mount Begbie Elementary School has been built closer to the location of the old high school. Centennial Pool opens in 1967. Hugh Keenleyside dam is completed at Castlegar in 1968, flooding the valley as far north as Revelstoke. The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club is established in 1968. Cross country ski trails are built at the base of Mount Revelstoke during the late 1970s, bringing a renewed interest in Nordic skiing.

Current RCMP Revelstoke Detachment opens in 2002. The Canadian Avalanche Centre is created in 2004 to coordinate public avalanche forecasts and a safety programs. Revelstoke Aquatic Centre opens in 2005. Centennial of first ascent of Mount Begbie takes place in 2007 — a time capsule is planted. Revelstoke Mountain Resort opens in December 2007. The sixth Lord Baron of Revelstoke, Edward Charles Baron, visits Revelstoke during the 2009 homecoming. Revelstoke is named after Edward Charles Baring, First Baron of Revelstoke. The title of Lord Revelstoke is still in existence today. A howitzer shell used for avalanche control in Rogers Pass. Photo: Melissa Jameson

In the fall of 2009, people in Japan create 1,000 cranes to commemorate the 1910 avalanche in Rogers Pass.

In 2013 local radio DJ Shaun Aquiline writes and produces a film about his father, and the men he’d worked along side for decades. It can be found on the National Screen Institute of Canada website (http:// www.nsi-canada.ca). In 2014 another motion picture, Mountain Men, is filmed in Revelstoke. It stars Chace Crawford and Tyler Labine. Numerous people from Revelstoke are involved in the film and many feature as extras. The “pipe” a mountain roller coaster ride opens at Revelstoke Mountain Resort in 2016. A 2016 census count places Revelstoke’s population at 6,719. National Snowbike Motocross event takes place February 4 and 5, 2017. This is the first time the new sport has taken place in Revelstoke. It takes place at the Revy Riders Dirtbike track. Kay Martin is Revelstoke’s oldest living resident. She turned 105 on June 17, 2017.

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Raising healthy kids

How to win the healthy food fight with kids. by Rebecca Marchildon One of our biggest dilemmas as parents is getting our children to consume a nutritious diet. I hear it all the time: “That’s all they’ll eat!” I think an important thing to remember is that these kids can’t eat what isn’t available to them. This applies to younger children of course, but if we start them off with the information they need to put their health first, we are setting them up for success. So many kids today grow up with food-related health issues and diseases, it’s our duty to give them the best start we can. When we feed our kids puffballs of sugar for breakfast and neon-coloured ice cream for dessert, we can’t expect them to happily munch away on broccoli. Their brain’s pleasure centres are not really lighting up at the thought of green juice if they have the option of orange pop. Unless, of course, we train them to make healthy choices on their own, and for their own good. As a former picky eater myself, I can definitely relate to these little people! I believe the main reason for my problem as a child, was that I could basically eat all the junk food that I wanted, which manipulated and hijacked my developing taste buds. I ate a lot of sugar, a substance that is eight times more addictive than cocaine. Some people consider it mean to deprive a kid of candy, but we must realize how absurd this thought is. Candy and processed sugar are toxic and of no benefit to our babies. When children are offered only a selection of healthy options, they will choose from these options. They will choose to eat over starvation. They can’t eat Kraft Dinner if they aren’t served Kraft Dinner. As parents, it’s our responsibility to teach our kids the difference between food made with love, and food made with greed. And, in my opinion, the explanation is most of the battle. Once they understand that they have a responsibility to their body, and that no one else

will take care of it for them, they will make intelligent choices. There’s a great quote by Wendell Berry, “People are fed by the Food Industry, which pays no attention to heath, and are treated by the Heath Industry, which pays no attention to food.” We are in charge of our own health, and in a world full of temptation, this is a crucial thing to remember. There will be things that your children just won’t like, for instance, I hated tomatoes and mushrooms as a child, but I loved spinach. My parents would always bug me about eating the foods I didn’t like instead of feeding me the nutritious ones that I loved. There is a dietary theory called “crowding out” which focuses on eating all the wonderful and healthy foods we love, instead of focusing only on removing the bad and addictive stuff from your diet. So instead of feeling deprived and unfulfilled, causing yourself unhealthy cravings, you end up nutritionally complete, full of goodness and vitamins, which deters the bad cravings. Over time, you ‘crowd out’ the bad with the good, and this is a really great way to transition your kids. Including your children in the preparation of food is an awesome way to teach them about what they’re putting into their bodies. They might want to grow a little garden or even a few herbs in your kitchen. Watching our food grow from tiny seeds into big edible plants is fascinating to us all. Kids also love making smoothies, and it’s easy for them to participate. There are so many fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds and spices you can add to make the most delicious smoothies!

How to get the kids into healthy eating. Photo: Rebecca Marchildon

meals. Almost like a salad bar! Plus, you’re giving them the power of choice, which is key in this venture. Making decisions will be empowering and help your kids feel good about themselves.

If you feel uninspired at mealtime, pick up one of the amazing cookbooks carried at Mountain Goodness. Look through the colourful pages with your children and pick out something delicious together. A healthy Making ‘Glory Bowls’ for lunch or dinner is a wonderful diet doesn’t mean you can’t have dessert — it just means way to give them options, they can decide on their own it will be made with real food. These cookbooks are which vegetables and toppings they’d like to add to their filled with some incredible treats!

Images this page of the Bainbridge Island Grow Community in Washington state. Photo: Fraser Blyth

How to build a more affordable Revelstoke Exploring tiny homes and other tools for affordable housing By Fraser Blyth Tiny homes are all the rage these days. A recent tiny house event in Revelstoke drew close to 100 people who were interested in learning about ways to legally start and build a tiny house community. And while I think tiny houses are an interesting option, they’re really speaking to a larger issue. Affordable housing. Affordable housing is an issue on everyone’s mind at the moment. While there’s a need to address it quickly, we want to be careful about rushing to find solutions. The best strategy for addressing affordable housing is (unfortunately) a long-range plan. The most effective strategy is to provide a greater variety of residential unit types throughout every neighbourhood in the city. The ‘Missing Middle Housing’ initiative is one that tries to do this by building a toolkit of housing types that act as the bridge between single-family and apartments. The city has said it will be embarking on a review of its Official Community Plan (OCP) in the near future, which will hopefully precede a long-overdue review of the city’s zoning bylaw (ZBL). Both reviews provide the opportunity to be involved and push the city to adopt more progressive bylaws that allow a wider range of housing options. To be fair, the city has done a good job of recognizing the need for new options. The number of new comprehensive development zones in the last three years is indicative of a city that is open to good ideas, but doesn’t have the legal tools (bylaws) to allow more of it. Here are some housing options you can push for: Communal housing idea is becoming a more popular form of housing throughout the Pacific Northwest. At a recent urban design conference in Seattle, I was able to tour both a pocket neighbourhood and the Grow Community on Bainbridge Island. Both have a communal parking area and green space with a centrally located parking area. Pocket neighbourhoods are specifically designed to be 8–12 small cottage units and no more, while the Grow Community had a variety of housing types ranging from single-family, to apartments and townhouses. Both are community-initiated and very community-oriented. In each instance a group of individuals came together to create they 30

types of neighbourhoods. If you and eight-plus friends want to build your own homes, check out pocket neighbourhoods and the Bainbridge Island Grow Community as potential models. Apartment houses, fourplexes, multiplexes and other types of types that make up the “Missing Middle Housing” are all housing types that we don’t currently allow in our zoning bylaw. Simply allowing these types of housing in our zoning bylaw can integrate a greater variety of more affordable housing types throughout the city. Allowing the conversion of existing single-family homes into smaller apartments is a way to use the housing stock we’ve got to provide more units, and is something that other larger cities have employed to address their housing issues. Converting a 2,500-square-foot single family home into three or four smaller living units is a great way gently increase density without dramatically changing the look of the neighbourhood, provided there’s enough space for parking. The exterior of the house doesn’t change, just the inside does. Tiny homes … those lovable little compact living units that range from about 180–350 square feet. They are smaller versions of the common mobile home and do everything that a mobile home does. They can be

commercially purchased, built and shipped to Revelstoke, or hand-built by the owner. Some of the major challenges with these units are the compliance with building code and snow load, density, permanence and access to services. A small modification to the city’s existing mobile home zone (R5 and R5A) could allow this type of community to happen organically. Carriage cottages are another great way to gently increase neighbourhood density without changing the look or feel of the neighbourhood. They are small living units that are usually built above a garage. Like a secondary suite, that isn’t in the house, but is still on the property. They require vehicular access, either through an alley (not all are plowed in the winter), via a corner lot, or driveway. They provide small apartment-sized units and some rental income for homeowners helping with affordability on multiple fronts. There are many more housing options available to explore that can help address our current affordable housing issues. I will dive into more of these in greater detail over the next few months with a brief non-sequitur into front porches next month. If there’s anything you’re interested in learning more about email me at fraser.j.blyth@gmail.com.

The exterior of the new Eagle Pass Heliskiing Lodge on Highway 23 South. Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer

Welcome home to Eagle Pass Heliskiing Lodge The eagle has landed in an amazing new lodge just south of Revelstoke By Eliisa Tennant When the team designing the Eagle Pass Heliskiing Lodge sat down to brainstorm their vision for the new lodge located minutes from town on Highway 23 south they, envisioned a space that brings nature from the outside in — a living, breathing place that celebrates the surrounding forests and unparalleled mountain views. Step through the doors and into the lodge for the first time and you can see that Project Manager Mike Hoffman of Faction Projects achieved the desired look. Large picture windows saturate the lodge in bold hues of green to create a room that feels like an extension of the forest. Around the main entrance a multitude of textures blend together for an organic feel: the roughness of the cork illuminated by the backlighting of the stainless steel Eagle Pass sign, the woodgrain of the timber frame highlighted by the Edison light bulbs and the log and stump accents of the furniture lend to the relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. In the hallways, acid-etched steel wainscoting completes the elemental theme of wood, metal and rock. The result is a fusion of contemporary, modern and backcountry lodge aesthetics into a unique synthe-

sis. The lodge boasts a dining hall serviced by a luxury kitchen, a large seating area near the grand fireplace, and a bar facility surrounded by floor to ceiling windows that immerse you in the encroaching cedar forest just outside. In the distance, Mount Begbie looms overhead, foreshadowing your alpine adventure. It was important to Eagle Pass, a company known for providing an extraordinary heliskiing experience, that they invested to ensure the material honoured the quality of the build in this 12 single-room lodge. The beauty of the mountain sanctuary needs to be seen to be appreciated. The goal of the lodge manager Sandra Gregory and her team is to have the facility act as a second home for the adventure-driven travellers that flock to Revelstoke for the elevated and intimate experience available with their company. “They [Faction Projects] built these walls and now it’s our job to fill them with adventure and experience. We are going to create moments for our guests that make time stand still,” Gregory told the Mountaineer as we toured the facility just ahead of their opening champagne reception. It is very apparent in the way she speaks — enthusiasm coating every word — that this building and the business are more than just a career to Sandra. It’s her passion.

Eagle Pass Heliskiing co-owners Scott Newsome, Michael Wood and Craig Borlund. Photo: Aaron Orlando

“You have to have your heart in something,” Gregory explains. “This is my heart.” When someone is as committed to excellence and their life’s work you know exciting things are on the horizon. Eagle Pass is limitless in their potential and always in constant pursuit of what is next meaning big plans for the future. Winter draws a loyal customer base from all over the world to Eagle Pass for their elevated guest experience in an intimate setting with unparalleled backcountry skiing adventure. The staff remain committed to pro-

BPR Construction Ltd. congratulates Eagle Pass Heliskiing on their new lodge and are proud to have provided construction management for his project. Contact BPR Construction Ltd. for your next major project build in the B.C. Southern Interior.

(250) 491-2763 www.bprconstruction.com 31

viding a stay that allows you to renew yourself while making you feel special. The big change for Eagle Pass comes in the summer months. They plan to become a destination boutique hotel by creating a reputation built on extraordinary experiences both during their stay at Eagle Pass and with time spent in the area. Staff will do everything from helping your organize and plan your activities in the area to remembering how you take your coffee in an experience they dub as “distinctly yours.” Plans don’t stop there for this company that asks how far they can go. Local residents should also be excited about things in the works at the lodge. Sandra created Class Act — an initiative inspired by local talent and driven by community knowledge that has boundless opportunities for Revelstokians to become involved. It could be contouring make up lessons, mixology instruction, art showings or a tasting event with their wine club called Wine Not. There will be something for everyone to enjoy. With their new building and motivated and passionate staff Eagle Pass Lodge is headed in an exciting and unique direction. They are just at the gateway of their new journey and hope to see you on yours.

SPEERS CONSTRUCTION INC. WOULD LIKE TO CONGRATULATE EAGLE PASS HELISKIING ON THEIR NEW LODGE! The team at Speers is proud to be a part of this exciting project. (250) (250)837-5171 837-5171

www.speersconstruction.com www.speersconstruction.com

CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE AT (250) 814-9148 | 86 JOHNSON WAY, REVELSTOKE

Mike Mcstay masonry would like to congratulate Eagle Pass Heliskiing on their new lodge.

We are proud to be a part of this exciting project!

Interior shot photos of the new Eagle Pass Lodge by Aaron Orlando, Eliisa Tennant and Eagle Pass Lodge.

It’s Canada’s “nature selfie,” and you’re invited! Participate in hands on learning activities while exploring the flora and fauna around Mt. Macpherson as part of a nation wide BioBlitz, celebrating Canada 150. Join us on Saturday, August 5th and Sunday, August 6th from 9am 3pm at Mt. Macpherson to be part of the action.

Il s’agit d’un « égoportrait de la nature» du Canada, et vous êtes invité à y prendre part! Participer à des activités d’apprentissage tout en explorant la flore et la faune autour du mont. Macpherson dans le cadre d’un BioBlitz à l’échelle nationale, célébrant le Canada 150. Rejoignez-nous le samedi 5 août et le dimanche 6 août de 9h à 15h au mont Macpherson fait partie de l’action.

Congratulations to Eagle Pass on your new lodge. We were happy to supply your building materials.

H&J was proud to be a part of the creation of the new Eagle Pass Lodge! Congratulations to Eagle Pass Heli on their amazing new creation.

Contact H&J

for your concrete needs on your next big project in the Revelstoke area. (250) 837-4938 From the staff of Revelstoke Builder’s Supply. (250) 837-2185 201 Campbell Ave, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Specialty Wood Products is not just a sawmill; they are inventors, they are industry trendsetters, they are artists, they use environmentally conscious business practices and the wood they cut is primarily used for their own finished products. The business name, Take to Heart, selected 13 years ago when he began the company, has a duality that is appropriate for the business. The heart both referring to the caring and passionate nature of Keith and to the centre of a log — also called the heart — a nod to the industry he has devoted his life’s work. Keith begins his 12-hour days at 5 a.m. driving around various lumber yards analyzing the logs and making selections to purchase for the company. And while one log could look the same as the next to most people, Keith sees the possibilities instead of simply wood, “I have been doing this for 22 years. I can look at a log and know what’s inside before I even cut it.” An ability which is extremely important since Take to Heart strives for zero waste by using every single part of the tree. Utilizing sustainable methods is equally as important as customer satisfaction to their business “one of my favourite parts of this business is when a customer is really happy with something we have produced by taking wood that nobody wanted and putting into a customer’s hands after creating absolute beauty out of it. You’re respecting the tree and saving it from being burned.” Equally as impressive as their environmentally conscious business practices is the vast range of products they offer: home siding, door and window trim, flooring, ceiling, rough lumber, custom home furniture and business storage solutions are just of few of the items available — most cre-ated from the four primary local woods available within our area.

A custom staircase creation by Take to Heart. Photo: Take to Heart

‘You dream it, we build it’

Specialty wood manufacturer Take to Heart mills dreams into masterpieces By Eliisa Tennant

At the end of Westside Road you’ll find a sawmill nestled between the mountainside and the pic-turesque Revelstoke Dam. The sign on the road reads Take to Heart and welcomes passersby to stop by and visit the business — your first indication that the owners are a friendly sort. A short distance down, the driveway you’ll arrive at the sawmill: sawdust blanketing the ground and the smell of freshly cut cedar hanging in the air. Most days you’ll find owner Keith Starling and his five employees around the yard working amid the loud machinery, various cuts of timber and massive logs. The simplicity of the scene belies the complexity of the business. Take to Heart

One could believe that diversifying so much would leave little time for innovation but Starling strives to be a trendsetter in the industry. One particular project that enabled him to dream, de-sign and then create was a local home made from solid wood walls — the first in North America. The wall panels are made entirely from waste wood without metal or glue in the structure allow-ing the walls to actually breathe. When discussing Take to Heart Specialty Wood Products Keith becomes animated, the passion for his family-run business palpable in his words. That passion directly translates to customer sat-isfaction. After 13 years in business Keith appreciates that nurturing customer relationships and consumer happiness are paramount. The way customers and fellow industry cohorts greet him — by name with a smile or even a hug — shows the kind of genuine businessman he is. And while Keith takes pride in starting a project and finishing it through to completion, part of his dedi-cation to consumer satisfaction can mean working with competitors to get the project done in a timely manner. Their business motto “You dream it. We build it.” could not be more appropriate for this local specialty wood product sawmill with the way they are living their own dreams. If you’re down on Westside Road stop in and see what Take to Heart can do to bring your dreams alive.

Take advantage of these amazing summer wine picks By Heather Hood

July, summer is in full swing and so is patio season. I have to admit, this month has had my favourite selection of wines so far since I started writing this column. The wines are all so different from each other but no matter what the occasion, they will all go well with the after work unwind, post daytime adventure or the evening wind down. I rarely have a significant reason to enjoy a glass of wine, for me it is usually like, it is Tuesday and then I pour myself a glass of wine! Whatever the reason you are picking up a bottle of wine, I am sure that at least one or all of these selections this month will be a wonderful addition to any occasion. Two of the featured wines are organic and also have the easy to open screw cap also commonly known as a Stelvin. The Stelvin has been around since the 1970’s but became more commonly used around the world starting in the mid 2000’s. Some wine regions have banned the use of the screw cap and others have completely switched over to this type of closure over a traditional cork.

Beaumont Trio 2015 Kelowna, BC $19.69

The choice of love

When it comes to our emotions, do we chose them or do we have them handed to us? By Anonymous It’s as good as any acid trip. The world starts to glow. All of a sudden, you start to notice the astounding beauty in everything around you. Like an amateur-edited photo, the colour saturation of the world becomes impossibly vibrant. You notice how stunning the clouds are, clouds that have always been just as stunning. Your heart is filled with warmth and love and pride and goodness. You love who you are. You become acutely aware of the amazing people in your life, and how utterly lucky you are to have landed where you have in this world. You start coming up with beautiful ideas of ways to show gratitude to your loved ones. You acknowledge (the greatness in people). You feel immensely social, abnormally grounded among large groups, unflinchingly certain of your own greatness and your contribution to others. You are Louis CK hilarious and Mother Teresa compassionate. You are all smiles and glowing kindness. You connect with everyone you come in contact with; the post office lady, the server at The Modern, even the man walking his dog on the greenbelt. You have an inexplicable, arcane understanding about the world and everything in it, like someone just let you in on the secret to the meaning of life. Money stops mattering. Music and dancing start happening. Your mind bubbles with inspiration for creative outlets. You write. You dream. You appreciate. LOVE. It’s been said before, it’s one hell of a drug. There’s nothing else as powerful. It can literally transform douchebags into darlings. It’s behind some of the greatest works of art in history; millions of cheesy songs and movies, brilliant paintings and extravagant architecture. If you believe the yogis of the world, this state of giddy romantic love is an experience that we choose. We can have it at any time, regardless of whether or not we have “someone” in our lives. They tell us that happiness is an inside job, completely independent of any external forces, and feelings are a matter of choice. It’s a nice idea. But how does it translate to the real world? In the same way that you don’t get the trip without the acid, it’s hard to imagine experiencing that “love drunk” state of happiness without the love affair. To what degree are we in control of our emotions and to what degree are we helpless victims of them? What does our society think about this? And the law? A 2004 case in the Missouri Supreme Court indicates that the legal system (at least in the US) does not follow the teachings of the yogis. The case presents a scenario where a truck collided with an on coming car. Upon checking on the family in the car, the truck driver came across the body of a two-year-old girl who had died in the crash. He later sued the family for the emotional stress that their dead daughter had caused him. So according to the powerful decision makers in our world, our emotional experiences are in fact dependent on external forces. We are at the mercy of events that occur around us. The yogis on the other hand are still telling us we’re in the driver’s seat and we should take control. It’s challenging to choose a side of the fence for this one. But I have to say that I like the idea of conjuring up the blissful feelings a new romance on any given day.

This wine is crisp, acidic and full of flavour, in summary it is the perfect summer wine. There are flavours of lime, mango and ripe pear. It has a wonderful fruity finish that lingers on your palate after you have finished sipping this wine. The nice thing about this blend of Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer is that, the Gewurztraminer does not dominate the flavour. Instead, this wine has nice characteristics of each varietal that comes through on the palate and the nose as well. The Trio can be enjoyed nicely on its own or would pair well with grilled vegetables, appetizers or a fresh summer salad.

Covert Farms Rosé 2016 Oliver, BC $18.61 In my opinion, summer would not be complete without enjoying rosé wine, this year your summer will not be complete without trying this rosé from Covert Farms. This wine is a blend which is comprised of Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah. The nose is quite subdued compared to the burst of flavour that you experience on your palate. The palate is full of flavours of ripe cherries, strawberries and watermelon. If you ever have the chance to visit Covert Farms, it is well worth the visit. Covert Farms is a 650 acre farm that not only has a winery but organic produce you can buy or pick yourself and some fantastic farm to table events.

Orofino Scout Vineyard Syrah 2014 Cawston, BC $31.87 An incredible nose, flavourful palate and a nice smooth finish, what else could you expect or want from a wine? This wonderfully made Syrah has a fragrant nose that carries through to the palate. There are flavours of black cherry, tobacco, currents and pepper. The tannins are medium and the finish is long with the flavours lingering in your mouth. This wine would pair well with rich flavours of grilled meat, roasted vegetables or enjoyed on its own.

All wines available at Cheers! Downtown Revelstoke Open 9am to 11pm Delivery to your Door Call 250.837.4550

others, two kids and a baby: yup, the stories from those early years are legendary! Cory spent three seasons in Grande Cache, rapidly advancing from a rookie to guiding our class 4+, advanced run. Then he moved to Revelstoke and was soon guiding rafts on the chilly Illy. But every spring, Cory would make the trek back up north to Grande Cache for a few weeks to help us train new guides and to raft the intense high-water season of June; when the steep technical rivers demand seasoned, experienced guides. Three years ago, it was on one of those annual trips that Cory brought up the idea of Wild Blue Yonder branching out into Revelstoke. “There’s some serious potential there, guys” he said. “I think we would do awesome.” With Revelstoke’s summer tourism booming, and the opportunity to work with a trusted colleague and friend like Cory, we leapt at the chance.

Wild Blue Yonder welcomes you into their river guiding family Wild Blue Yonder Rafting may be the new kid on the block in Revelstoke, but we’re definitely not new to rafting, and one of our team leaders is actually a well-known Revy local. Our story began back in 1998 with our founder’s dream of running away from the city, back to the mountains. After a decade of life in Edmonton, Gina Goldie returned to Grande Cache, a small mountain town in Alberta, and started a rafting company. She bought a couple of boats and some wetsuits, cleaned up an old tree-planter bus, hired Johannes (Yo) Zwart as a manager, and started booking trips. Yo bought in as an owner a couple

years later, and it was only three years after that, in 2003, that Cory Beisel came along, toque in hand, and asked for a job as a raft guide. Cory has lived in Revelstoke for over 10 years, guiding rafts in the summer on the Illecilleweat River and working for Selkirk-Tangiers in the winter. But 14 years ago, Cory was a rookie guide, and Wild Blue Yonder was a fast-growing new company. Along with two other couples, Gina, Yo, Cory and his wife, Whitney, were the original Wild Blue Yonder crazy river staffers — and we’ve all remained close friends ever since. Imagine living in a house with five raft guides, a few significant

Today, Wild Blue Yonder is one of the most reputable rafting companies in Alberta. We paddle some of the highest-class, most dangerous rivers in the province. And it hasn’t been enough to just paddle great rivers: in an out-of-the-way location like Grande Cache, with the lure of Jasper National Park down the road, we’ve had to be better. Every detail, from the first phone call to the last wave good-bye, has to be amazing. But the real magic has always been in our team. Even the newest staff members quickly feel part of our ‘river family’, and most our team leaders actually ARE family! Gina and Yo are a couple. Cory’s been around so long he may as well be related, Gina’s son Freeman and his girlfriend Annie are managers, one of our long-time guides is Freeman’s best friend from childhood, and Gina’s niece, Quinn, is head of the River Pirates program. That sense of family, along with our philosophy of treating every guest as a potential friend, and the camaraderie that comes from years of working and playing on rivers together has made us, as one travel writer put it, “have a special something, that I’ve just not experienced with other rafting companies.” Now, with the purchase and renovation of a derelict property on Victoria Road, we’re excited to put down roots in Revelstoke and grow our Wild Blue Yonder river family some more!

Class 3+ White Water on the Illecillewaet River – Pirate Adventures on the Columbia River White Water! The class 3+ Illecillewaet River is a perfect mix of crashing waves and fun boulder gardens, with time to soak in the scenery - a great intermediate trip for beginners! Pirates! Crazy Captains dazzle the little ones while trusty deck hands (licensed raft guides) safely navigate the waters of the Columbia River. An engaging rafting adventure for kids of all ages. With FREE TRIP PHOTOS and fresh baked snacks, both our adventures are unforgettable trips of a lifetime!

est. 1998

RAFTING ADVENTURES RAFTING IN REVELSTOKE www.revyraft.com toll free 1-877-945-3786

theRive r

Pir ate s.ca s

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Open daily 8am to 8pm 621 Victoria Road fun@wildblueyonder.ca

GRAND OPENING June 30th! Join us for free burgers and bubbles!

#revelstokemountaineer @revelstoke_mountaineer + @terrafirmafarms Instagram contest colab Win prizes and get your Insta photos featured in Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine by tagging your photos with #revelstokemountaineer. Check the print issue and follow us at @revelstoke_mountaineer for monthly photo contest themes. For July, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re partnering with Terra Firma Farm and have a crate full of Terra Firma veggies for the winner of our July contest! This month, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re picking the best photos of gardens and the growing natural environment such as forests and flowers. To enter, tag your photo with #revelstokemountaineer. Good luck! Congratulations to @boutrip for winning our March colab with Skookum Cycle & Ski! Contact us to pick up your Skookum baseball hat.

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