Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine February 2019 issue

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February 2019

Checking in on the Revy ladies sled scene New local backcountry map app

New Alpine Club of Canada Columbia Mountains section TCH: Petition for truck driver training

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CONTENTS

Creative Director Aaron Orlando The Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is a free, independent monthly publication featuring the best of Revelstoke outdoor life, food, style, visitor experiences, lifestyles, entertainment, home style, and healthy living.

Each month we distribute 3,000 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.

For more information, including details on our very affordable advertising rates, please contact us: www.revelstokemountaineer.com on the advertising tab.

250-814-8710 info@revelstokemountaineer.com PO BOX 112, 606 Railway Avenue, Revelstoke, B.C. V0E 2S0

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CircusWest to visit

14 Night moves

24 Immigration services

Vancouver performers bring Fireflight to RPAC

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A decade of open mic

Steve Smith reflects on 10 years of musical get togethers

Rogers Pass upgrades

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Events Calendar

Find out what’s happening in Revelstoke in February

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New facilities planned for the Pass

11 Boonmaps app

Grooming the runs at RMR

16 Health directory

Website centralizes Revelstoke health services 27 New athletic facility drive

Non-profit group seeks to

establish new rec facility

18 Women’s sled scene

Writer and photographer

Cassandra Prochera checks in 28 Old School

on the women’s sled scene in Newest Revelstoke restaurant

opens in historic Mountain Revy

View building

22 New alpine club section

Longstanding alpine club opens new section in Revelstoke area

New backcountry maps for the 24 Wolf numbers Revelstoke area

Aerial wolf kills continue in

caribou recovery effort

12 Driver safety petition

Sponsored: New immigration service business opens doors in Revy

29 Wine selections

Mountaineer wine columnist

Heather Hood reflects on

selections with diverse note medleys

Widow petitions for better commercial driver training

30 Cold kung fu Nutritionist Shannon MacLean on how to ease the pain when you get sick

February 2019 contributors COVER PHOTO Visiting rider Darian Henzig takes a turn in the Revelstoke backcountry. Check out our feature on the women’s sled scene in Revelstoke by writer and photograher Cassandra Prochera on page 18.

Photo: Cassandra Prochera

Aaron Orlando

Alex Cooper

Cassandra Prochera

Bryce Borlick

Shannon MacLean

Heather Hood

Louise Stanway

Claudia Bambi

Creative Director

Melissa Jameson

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ENTERTAINMENT

Nature-inspired Fireflight brings circus talent to RPAC

Flying forest animals featured in artistic, acrobatic performance

By Melissa Jameson Fireflight tells the tale of a young hummingbird that enlists the help of other animals living in the Great Bear Rainforest to fight a raging forest fire.

Created by Vancouver-based CircusWest, Fireflight is a blend of circus, storytelling, and movement.

CircusWest artistic director Jay Nunns said the show features B.C. circus artists who portray animals of the Great Bear Rainforest. The talents of the performers are set against the supernatural background of the Pacific Northwest. Audiences can look forward to seeing dazzling handstand and partner balance acts, detailed aerial artistry on aerial hoop, and daring multicorde acrobatics.

Revelstoke Arts Council executive director Margot Wyllie said the audience can expect a visually delightful experience that combines different elements of circus and weaves together a story about engagement, the environment, and teamwork.

“We invited Fireflight to come

to Revelstoke as they are Western Canada’s top circus talent. We know Revelstoke is full of people who value adventure, movement, physical performance, and have a strong regard for community involvement and the environment. We are excited to experience how Fireflight expresses these values through their circus performance,” said Wyllie.

Originally built in the winter of 2017, CircusWest first performed Fireflight at Pacific Contact Showcase in 2018. Nunns said for years CircusWest wanted to create a show featuring the beauty of B.C. and the lush wildlife that calls it home. A piece that includes creatures that fly and balance precariously in nature makes for great circus as human performers defy gravity and fly themselves, said Nunns.

While the show’s background and animal-inspired characters make for great circus, the message contained in Fireflight is one with a more

CircusWest will perform Fireflight at the Revelstoke Pefroming Arts Centre on Feb. 9. Photo: CircusWest

human-centred theme. By creating a world beyond the everyday, Nunns said the show is able to tell a parable of getting involved and standing up for what you believe. The animals represented in the story portray aspects of humanity while staying true to their animalistic motivations. Animals featured in Fireflight include a hummingbird, spirit bear, raccoon, stellar jay, cougar, bald eagle, and salmon.

The predator/prey relationship of the animals, as well as their place on the food chain, is explored within the parameters of the circus act.

As the show develops, a crisis arises and the animals are forced to band together to survive. Nunns says it is this

altruism expressed by the animals that reveals their true essence and allows their spirit animals to be released.

The show contains an incredibly deep message, but it’s also in good fun.

“Youngsters will be in awe of the physical abilities of the artists, and kids at heart will also be presented with a larger message of the power of inspiration and activism,” said Nunns.

Fireflight takes place at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, February 9. There are shows at 3 p.m. (now sold out) and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children and can be purchased online at www.revelstoketheatretickets.com.

Circus & Family Series

FEBRUARY & MARCH PRESENTED BY

FIREFLIGHT SHOW BY CIRCUSWEST Adults $10 Kids $5

Saturday Feb 9, 2018 3:00pm & 7:30pm THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR Adults $10 Kids $5

Saturday Mar 2, 2019 3:00pm

Tickets available at the Visitor Centre & online at www.revelstoketheatretickets.com

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FIREFLIGHT SHOW

BY CIRCUSWEST

THE VERY HUNGRY

CATERPILLAR

A decade of open mic night Weekly musicians’ night a springboard for new local talent

By Alex Cooper Years ago – nine to be exact – I was asked to do a story about open mic night at the Last Drop. I hadn’t been before (as a punk rock elitist, I’d generally had a low opinion of open mic nights) but I had heard it was the night to go out in Revelstoke.

I showed up and the place was packed. There were lines out both doors and a thirsty horde pressed up against the bar. The stage was at the side of the pub, with about three metres between it in the bar. And in that space, everyone crammed in, dancing, moshing, and even crowd surfing.

Turns out it was a little too popular, because the bar owners begged me not to run the story because they’d just been issued a liquor license suspension because of the night’s success.

“I don’t know what it was,” Steve Smith, the founder of open mic night at the Last Drop, told me. “People were wanting to party, and there wasn’t a lot of live music then.”

At the time, the Last Drop had just re-opened under new ownership and a major renovation transformed it from a dingy dive bar into a British-style pub. Speederz had an open mic night and the new owners wanted to keep it going, so they approached Smith, who had hosted an open mic in Yellowknife and played in local band Maritime Kitchen Party with Shannon Sternloff and Trevor Wallach.

“We wanted to have a place where a musician could come in – either a neophyte or a professional,” said Smith. “It was a perfect place for us to hone our teeth as a band.”

Steve Smith (right), Cam Lovett and Trevor Wallach (drums) perform at the 10th anniversary celebration of the Last Drop’s Open Mic Night, which has been an incubator for local live music talent over the decade.

Below: Nik Winnitowy performs.

Photos: Alex Cooper/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

Open mic night is now in its 10th year, and while it isn’t wild like that first winter, it continues to be a hangout for local musicians, a place where they can perform with minimal pressure and make connections in the music scene.

Cam Lovett, who now co-hosts open mic night with Smith, started coming out when he moved to Revelstoke in 2010. He now plays bass in several local bands and credits the night for getting him into the local music scene.

“Open mic is the stepping stone for music in Revelstoke,” he said.

While it’s ostensibly an amateur night, a few professionals have stopped by over the years, including rock duo Human Statues, folk-blues artist Rick Fines, and singer-songwriter Dave Gunning. Corb Lund showed up once, though he didn’t play.

The bar is much quieter on this Wednesday night than it was that night nine years ago, but there’s still a crowd of musicians looking to get on stage.

Nik Winnitowy was one of them. He

moved to Revelstoke two years ago and started coming out to open mic night to play. There, he forged connections to start a band called Catherwood.

“I never would have had the opportunities I’ve had musically in Revelstoke if it weren’t for open mic,” he told me.

Smith is still the driving force behind the night, coming out almost every Wednesday year-round. He’ll open the show with his band, and they often close as well, and in between he schedules performers and, occasionally, gives people the heave-ho if they overstay their welcome.

“We started it for the right reasons – to give

musicians a chance to play,” said Smith.

“We’ve watched people come out and have their first time on the stage, and then we’ve watched them blossom.”

Open mic night takes place at the Last Drop every Wednesday night starting at 10 p.m.

Emily Beaumont

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LUNA NOCTURNAL ART & WONDER REVELSTOKE, BC

Washrooms, day area for Rogers Pass upgrades Parks Canada still exploring options for other facilities

CALLING ALL

By Melissa Jameson

ARTISTS!

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NOW OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS

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ˆ Ž ˆ † The view along the Trans-Canada Highway from a mountain peak at Rogers Pass. Photo: Parks Canada

ACCOMMODATION ASSOCIATION

Submission

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DEADLINE APRIL 15 2019

Parks Canada is set to begin much-needed upgrades to the Rogers Pass area in Glacier National Park this summer. Confirmed projects include a 24-hour washroom facility, day-use area, and additional parking.

Work on the Rogers Pass renewal has been ongoing for several years with investments being made to upgrade infrastructure, address contamination issues and improve visitor services. Parks Canada demolished the former lodge and service station buildings in 2018.

Shelley Bird, acting external relations manager for Mount Revelstoke & Glacier National Parks, said the planned projects were identified as priorities with funding already secured. The safety of the public was central in deciding which projects would take precedence. The need for additional parking spaces are needed in the winter months when avalanche control or vehicle incidents cause closures on the Trans-Canada Highway. Bird said with 130 avalanche paths throughout the park, there is a need to provide safe parking for vehicles. The 24-hour heated washroom facility, which will include a waiting area, is also a key component for public safety during these closures, said Bird. “It’s designed to fit the current motif of the visitor centre and with the natural environment,� she said.

The planned day use area is being completed as part of the development of the washroom. Bird said the land is already being prepared to accommodate the new building.

Other facilities, including overnight accommodations and food services, still being considered

NEWS

Above: The design for a new washroom facility at Rogers Pass slated for construction this summer. Right: At the trailhead near the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre. Images: Parks Canada While the current focus is on prioritizing safety and upgrading sewer and waterworks, other possible additions were identified through a request for public input on the Rogers Pass renewal. Public requests included the need for overnight accommodation and food services. Bird said the type of accommodation and food service varied greatly. Requests for additional accommodations included everything from additional camping to cabins, or hostels and a hotel. A significant interest in overnight accommodation came from winter users because currently the two campgrounds at Rogers Pass only operate during the summer.

Requests for food service ranged from people just wanting to grab a quick coffee to a full-service restaurant.

Bird said there are a number of considerations when it comes to determining what services will be included. Parks Canada needs to consider their mandate mandate while ensuring people are able to enjoy and learn about the park. To date there are no clear timelines on when additional facilities, other than those already in the works, will be determined.

Bird said as Parks Canada moves forward there will be further opportunities for public input. Next steps include looking at what other infrastructure and additions will fit with the overall mandate of Parks Canada, and then figuring out how to secure funding.

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Check out the RMR Banked Slalom presented by Trapper Snowboards on Feb. 2 & 3. Photo: Aaron Orlando/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

WEEKLY EVENTS MONDAY Soup and a Smile @ Revelstoke United Church 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Enjoy soup and a sandwich each week at the Revelstoke United Church. Cost is by donation or free for those who cannot afford to pay.

WEDNESDAY Free meditation @ Balu Yoga 7:30 a.m.

Guided meditation using the practice using the practice known as Sadhana. No experience necessary and all are welcome.

THURSDAY Revelstoke Winter Farmers Market @ Revelstoke Community Centre 12 p.m.–5p.m.

The Winter Farmers Market brings together farm and craft vendors from Revelstoke and beyond. The market takes place every second Thursday.

FRIDAY Drop-in curling @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

Give curling a try in a non-competitive environment. Cost is $5 and includes instruction and equipment use. Bring clean running shoes to wear on the ice.

EVENTS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Revelstoke Grizzlies @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies take on the Osyoyoos Coyotes in Junior B hockey action.

Billy Bangers & Django @ Traverse 10 p.m.

Billy & Django have been rocking shows for over a decade now proving time & time again to be relentless crowd rockers with impeccable flavour for dirty beats.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2

at revelstokemountainresort.com.

Banked Slalom @ Revelstoke Mountain Resort 8 a.m.

Test yourself against competitors in the third annual RMR Banked Slalom presented by Trapper Snowboards on Feb. 2 & 3. More details

Revelstoke Grizzlies @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies take on the Chase Heat in Junior B hockey action.

Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check the website for more details or to get registered!

www.laninasledcamp.ca YOUTH SNOWMOBILE & BACKCOUNTRY SKILLS Saturday, February 16 Join La Nina, Revelstoke Snowmobile Club and Avalanche Canada for a day of snow safety on Boulder Mountain.

Attendees will receive $100 discount off a day of riding with the pros on

Sunday, February 17

- Nadine Overwater & Cody Borchers

Backcountry snowmobile camps designed for women 8

ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2019 Kytami fuses electronic beats with violin for a unique fusion at Traverse.

A great night of art featuring 50 12’x12’ pieces for local artists on silent auction in support of the centre. Tickets $15 available at https://artsrevelstoke.bigcartel.com Moontricks w/Shylo @ Traverse 9p.m.

Moontricks perform their own original style of boot-stomping grassroot blues meets underground brass music.

Elk Run & Riot @ Last Drop Pub 10 p.m.

A folk rock four piece, Elk Run & Riot has been carving their unique style of experimental music since early 2013.

Fireflight tells the tale of how a young hummingbird fighting a raging forest fire inspires other animals to assist the tiny bird to protect their fragile environment. Tickets $11 adults/$6 children available at www.revelstoketheatretickets.com Ben Fox @ Traverse 9 p.m.

Shambhala Music Festival veteran Ben Fox brings his connection with hip-hop and dance music for a mixed spectrum sound that will transport your mind, body and soul to a sonic paradise.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 Banff Mountain Film Festival World

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Tour @ Roxy Theatre Sustainable Living Expo @ Revelstoke Community Centre 12 p.m.–5p.m.

The North Columbia Environmental Society hosts this event featuring an interactive trade show that aims to educate consumers on sustainability issues.

Kytami @ Traverse 10 p.m.

Kytami fuses fiddle styles with heavy bass elements of DnB, dubstep and hip hop.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Anything Goes Silent Auction @ Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre 7 p.m.–9 p.m.

Revelstoke Grizzlies @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies take on the Summerland Steam in Junior B hockey action.

Fireflight-Circus West @ Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

Explore the edge of believable with some of the best films from Banff Mountain Film Festival as it brings exhilarating stories to the big screen at The Roxy Theatre. The festival runs Feb. 12, 13 & 14. Tickets available at the Revelstoke Chamber.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Free weddings & vow renewals @ Revelstoke Mountain Resort 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Take the plunge and tie the knot or renew your vows at Mackenzie Outpost at the top of the gondola. Vows and vow renewals will be performed by a marriage commissioner on a

Your health. Your community.

Where you can find up to date information on health and social services in Revelstoke.

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ENTERTAINMENT first-come first-wed basis. Make sure you stop by the courthouse and grab your marriage license ($100) first.

weave stories with guitars, violins, accordions, bass, melodies and music makers gleaned from their wanderings for a unique, danceable, folk music-inspired experience.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Youth Day @ Revelstoke Snowmobile Club 9 a.m.–3p.m.

Adults and their children have a chance to learn about snowmobile safety before riding up to the RSC cabin. The event includes presentations by Avalanche Canada and Revelstoke Search and Rescue. Visit revelstokesnowmobileclub.com for more information.

Revelstoke Grizzlies @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies take on the North Okanagan Nights in Junior B hockey action.

The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra @ Traverse 9 p.m.

Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra

abilities. Cost is $2 for Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club members, and a trail fee plus $2 for non-members.

For more info visit www.revelstokenordic.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22

Chase the Bear @ Last Drop Pub 8 p.m.

Chase the Bear performs at the Last Drop Pub.

Val Kilmer ‘80s Party @ Traverse 9 p.m.

Val Kilmer and the New Coke play only the best selection of 80s music you can ask for.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23

CREDtalk @ Revelstoke Community Centre 12p.m.–1p.m.

This free presentation held in the Macpherson Room will look at the intraspecific evolution and post-glacial dispersal of Canada Jays.

Revelstoke Grizzlies @ Revelstoke Forum 7 p.m.

The Revelstoke Grizzlies take on the Sicamous Eagles in Junior B hockey action.

Headlamp Heroes: Mixed Technique Team Sprints @ Mt. Macpherson Nordic Ski Trails 6 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

Headlamp heroes is a fun toonie race series for skiers of all ages and

Team Scream @ Mt. MacPherson Nordic Ski Trails TBA The Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club’s fun annual event Team Scream is back for another year. Check out www. revelstokenordic.org for details.

Skratch Bastid @ Traverse 9 p.m.

Turntable champion and crowd favourite Skratch Bastid is back in Revelstoke to rock the house.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Three Identical Strangers @ Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre 7:30 p.m.

Three complete strangers accidentally discover they are identical twins, separated at birth. Tickets $9 available at www.revelstoketheatretickets.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Death Cafe @ Dose Coffee 7 p.m.–9p.m.

At a Death Cafe people drink tea, eat cake and discuss death. The aim is to increase awareness of death to help people make the most of their (finite) lives.

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Frazer Hogg is the developer of Boonmaps, a new offline 3D map app. Photo by Bruno Long

New Boonmaps app to aid backcountry navigation

Left: A screenshot of Frisby Ridge from the Boonmaps app.

Hopes 3D system will cut down on lost sledders,backcountry users

By Alex Cooper You’re lost.

You gunned your snowmobile through the trees into a meadow high up on Boulder Mountain. You arced a few turns, the powder flying over your head.

You jet back into the glades, the trees like a playful slalom course, face shots at every turn. This is everything you dreamed snowmobiling in Revelstoke could be – so much that you get lost in the moment as you venture further and further in search of powder.

Eventually, you stop in a clearing and look around, the mountains shrouded in snow and not a soul around. You’ve managed to leave the crowds behind – including your riding partners. You backtrack, looking for your buddies, the revs of their engines muffled by nature and not getting any closer.

“Where’s the trail?” you wonder.

Fortunately, the previous night you downloaded Boonmaps, a new app that provides offline 3D imagery of several Revelstoke snowmobiling areas, including Boulder Mountain. You didn’t want to be that guy from the Prairies who had to get led off the mountain by search and rescue. You fire it up, load the map and let your phone’s GPS pinpoint your location. You rotate it up, down and

around as you get your bearings. The trail is only a few hundred metres away, through some trees and up a hill, and you set off. Eventually you make it to the groomed trail and roar back to the cabin where your friends await. As light fades, you ride back to the parking lot together.

Boonmaps was developed by Revelstoke resident Frazer Hogg and is the latest in a long line of offline mapping apps designed to help people navigate in the backcountry. Most of them have two-dimensional apps that use a mixture of satellite imagery and topo lines to help you navigate. Generally, the user pays to access different features, and you’re able to access maps for anywhere in the world Boonmaps differs in several ways.

Most notably, the maps are three-dimensional and they’re free to download.

“I see it as a big advantage because I think your average person with little map experience benefits huge from a 3D view,” Hogg told me.

Hogg has lived on and off in Revelstoke since 2009, and has called it home since 2016. He has a commerce degree, and has spent the better part of this decade working with his father and a

friend in a business that does 3D aerial surveys for mineral exploration companies. Boonmaps is essentially a marriage of his work and his love of the outdoors – taking the 3D imaging and bringing it to the backcountry.

“I was thinking of Google Earth and Gaia (a popular offline mapping app) and all these differing things,” he told me. “It would be so helpful if there was one spot you could get everything.”

How it works is you download the app to your phone, then download the map of the area you plan on riding in that day. So far, maps exist for Boulder Mountain, Frisby Ridge, Blanket Glacier Chalet, and Red Mountain Resort.

Much like Google Earth, the 3D maps allow you to fly around the terrain, zoom in and out, and view it from all angles. Unlike Google Earth, the maps are high-res, recent, taken in winter, and available offline after you download them. They include trails and key locations like the Boulder Cabin.

The app and maps are free to download; instead of user-pay, Hogg’s business model is to have the venues pay for the development of the maps.

“I think these venues will find it’s a

huge promotional tool. Having a very life like model of your area can be very beneficial,” said Hogg.

Eric Kerr, the marketing director for Red Mountain, said they were interested because it provides “an easier way for new guests to understand the size and scope of our mountain.”

“The useful feature of GPS location on the mountain has been great, as well to help guests assess where they are, potentially in relation to their friends or family for meeting up,” he added.

The Revelstoke Snowmobile Club maps were funded by Tourism Revelstoke. Meghan Tabor, the manager of Tourism Revelstoke, said they chose to do so because of the tourism value of snowmobiling, as well as recognition of the pressure lost snowmobilers put on Revelstoke Search & Rescue. “We felt this resource would be an important one to be able to provide to our snowmobile tourists as an additional safety measure,” she said. “Our goal through this pilot project was to enhance the safety and visitor accessibility of the Boulder Mountain and Frisby Ridge snowmobile trail networks.”

Hogg hopes positive reviews will help bring on board more venues and the app will grow organically, with more and more maps on offer. “I’m hoping it will organically take a bit of traction one way or another,” he said.

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NEWS

Widow petitions for better driver training The widow of a truck driver who died in a crash on Trans-Canada Highway near Revelstoke wants better commercial driver training standards for Canada

By Alex Cooper

A woman who lost her husband in a truck crash on the Trans-Canada Highway is happy that the federal gov-

ernment is pursuing national training standards for truck drivers.

“I’m really pleased to hear that Marc

Garneau has accepted the responsibility to implement an entry-level training protocol for semi-truck drivers,” Pattie Fair told the Mountaineer.

Fair lost her husband Stephen Babij, and their dog Zak, when a semi crossed the centre line and crashed into Babij’s tractor-trailer east of Revelstoke on Mar. 13, 2017.

That tragedy, and the one that lead to the deaths of 16 members of the Humboldt Broncos last April, spurred her to launch an official petition to the House of Commons calling for the industry to be regulated federally.

Marc Garneau, the Federal Transportation Minister, announced Monday, Jan. 21, that a federal training standard would be in place by January 2020, though no specifics were revealed.

“It is very clear to us – and Canadians expect it – that people who receive their license as drivers of semi-trailers and large vehicles should be properly prepared through training before they assume those duties,” he told reporters

at a press conference following a meeting with his provincial counterparts.

Fair’s online petition was launched on the House of Commons website on Jan. 14 and received more than 2,100 signatures its first week, including a number from Revelstoke after it was shared locally.

“Out of all of Canada, the stretch between Revelstoke and Golden is my primary focus,” she said. “I’m really grateful to the people of Revelstoke for their support.”

The petition, which is being backed

by Kelly Block, the MP for Humboldt’s riding of Carlton Trail-Eagle Creek, asks for four components of any regulations.

It calls for a Class 1 license to be considered a skilled trade; for people to be able to qualify for funding to cover training costs; for development of an entry-level curriculum and a graduated licencing system; and for licensing bodies to store information on the training record of any Class 1 driver.

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NEWS

training rules for drivers, while Alberta and Saskatchewan are implementing regulations this March.

Fair, who lives in Falkland, B.C., said she would continue to lobby in support of her petition, and wants it to extend beyond entry-level training “It’s great that it’s happening but the proof is in the pudding,” she said. “What is happening? What’s going to be developed? How is it implemented? How is it going to be regulated?”

One thing Fair would like to see is a mountain pass endorsement that drivers must receive before driving B.C.’s highway passes.

She would regularly hear horror stories from her husband about driving the Trans-Canada through B.C. He made regular trips from Alberta to the Lower Mainland, navigating the Coquihalla and Rogers Pass. “Currently, hair stylists are considered a professional trade,” she said. “They receive more training than a truck driver.”

Fair thought about launching the petition when her husband was alive, but was spurred on following her husband’s death and the Humboldt Broncos crash.

“I want to make something positive out of a really bad situation for myself and everybody else on the road,” she said.

Commercial truck driver Stephen Babij and his dog Zak were killed in a head-on collision east of Revelstoke on the Trans-Canada Highway in March of 2017 after another commercial truck crossed the centre line and collided with Babij’s truck. Photo: Babij family images

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13

OUTDOOR LIFE

Nocturnal technicians We cast a little light on things that go bump in the night at Revelstoke Mountain Resort

By Bryce Borlick At just after 2 a.m. the call came through on Alistair Thompson’s radio. An RCMP search operation was underway for a woman who had fled up the mountain to escape her abusive, and possibly armed, boyfriend. No further details were available. Alistair continued to pilot his PistenBully snow grooming cat into the inky darkness of the ski runs but his mind concocted all sorts of scenarios. Would the woman seek out the safety and shelter of his cat? Would the boyfriend soon follow? Would anyone be able to help if things turned violent?

“Cat 2, the RCMP operation is complete, both people have been located,” crackled the radio as Alistair descended toward the maintenance shop to refuel.

His relief, however, was short lived. “The cops found them at the maintenance shop tearing the place up.”

When it comes to ski resort night operations, work crews learn to expect the unexpected, like this incident from Mount Seymour. Whiteouts, extreme temperatures, equipment failures, av-

alanche risk, and medical emergencies are just a few of the challenges that staff face regularly to keep the resort running smoothly and have everything buttoned up by first light when the public arrives.

“We focus mainly on The Last Spike, Tickle Trunk, and the Turtle Creek area,” explains Scott Barrett, a first-year technician. “The goal is to have the ski-out filled in by Christmas break.”

“Operations on the mountain aren’t just about making things run safely,” says Nathan Dorward, Mechanical Services Manager for Revelstoke Mountain Resort. “It’s also about offering a consistently good experience for our guests.”

The season starts early for the snowmakers — if overnight temps are within a normal seasonal range, the crew of two will have equipment prepped and snow guns running by the second week of November. RMR utilizes four mobile guns that operate optimally at minus 17 Celsius, but can still produce snow up to minus one Celsius if humidity is low. The water pressure exiting the mid-mountain pump house is 200 PSI but gravity can increase this to roughly 900 PSI for a snow gun firing at the base area. That kind of pressure is comparable to one of Mike Tyson’s infamous KO punches, so care is needed when handling the lines. But what the crew really watches is temperature because all their careful planning and hard work can be washed away if a sudden warm spell turns the jets of snow into streams of water.

The snowmaking crew starts their twelve hour shift at 6 p.m., not long after ski patrol’s final sweep of the mountain.

Although RMR is blessed with abundant natural snowfall and is much less reliant on snowmaking than resorts in the Rockies or in eastern Canada, there are critical areas between the mid-mountain lodge and the base of the resort that just don’t fill in naturally. If your motto is ‘death before download’, you have this crew to thank for keeping your P-Tex sliding on snow rather than on mud and rock.

But snow guns alone don’t produce the velvety smooth tracks that skiers and snowboarders expect at RMR. Once there is an adequate whale, or cache, of man-made or natural snow, the cats take over, moving literally tons of snow to even out and pack the tracks in the early season. It’s how The Last Spike can maintain adequate coverage into April when the areas immediately to the sides have turned from white to green. It’s also how the terrain park is built and how the Downtowner is transformed from a rocky ledge that you’d barely recognize in summer, to a main thoroughfare in winter.

The Winter Permit System Permis d’accès hivernal Planning to ski Rogers Pass?

Vous comptez skier au col Rogers?

The Winter Permit System is in effect between November and March annually. Learn it.

Get your permit.

Le Permis d’accès hivernal est en vigueur entre novembre et mars de chaque année. Apprenez-en le fonctionnement. Obtenez votre permis.

In Rogers Pass, artillery is used to fire explosives and trigger avalanches for the highway avalanche control program.

Before you go:

Dans le col Rogers, le programme de déclenchement préventif d’avalanches pour la Transcanadienne est axé sur des tirs d’artillerie. Avant de partir :

• Learn how the system works at pc.gc.ca/skirogerspass • Check daily to know what areas are open or closed before you park, ski or ride • Get your winter permit and national park pass at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre • Look after your own safety. Have the skills and equipment to travel in avalanche terrain.

• Apprenez le fonctionnement du système : pc.gc.ca/skicolrogers • Chaque jour, tenez-vous au courant d’où vous pouvez vous stationner et faire du ski ou de la planche à neige • Obtenez votre permis d’accès hivernal et votre laissez-passer de parc national au Centre de la découverte du Col-Rogers • Possédez les compétences et l’équipement nécessaire pour voyager dans le terrain avalancheux

Learn more at pc.gc.ca/skirogerspass

Pour en savoir plus, consultez pc.gc.ca/skicolrogers

14

When the sun goes down, the groomers go to work smoothing out the bumps at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Photo: Revelstoke Mountain Resort image

Of course, the grooming work that’s most obvious and probably most appreciated by skiers and snowboarders is flattening moguls and laying down fresh corduroy. RMR utilizes a total of seven cats on most nights that prowl the mountain over two shifts.

“People expect runs to be groomed, and less advanced skiers really appreciate that kind of surface,” says Nathan. “We wouldn’t be able to operate without the cats.”

These 500-plus horsepower, 25,000-pound machines often cost over $300,000 each and their list of features is long. The front blade, mainly used for pushing snow and contouring, is flanked by a pair of wings, making twelve way adjustability possible for the

most advanced cats. The rear tiller, used mainly to lay down corduroy, has similar adjustability. The life saver though, is the winch which allows the cat to operate on slopes that would be dangerous or impossible to groom otherwise. In addition to all this, the cab usually features heated seats, heated windows, a stereo system, acoustic warnings, and a huge range of gauges that display all critical operational information.

Even with the latest technology and best operational protocols things can go wrong and that’s when the crews’ true grit shines through. When it’s 2 a.m. and you’re working in difficult weather conditions in a remote area of the mountain, there simply is no one immediately available to help when things go awry.

Resilience, self reliance and ingenuity are necessary to get things back on track,

whether it’s a frozen snow gun connection, a tangled winch cable, or a cat that literally needs to be puts back on its tracks. Of course, when things go from bad to worse, there’s always someone on call.

“We have three journeyman mechanics and someone is always on call and ready to rip up there on a snowmobile in the middle of the night if that’s what it takes to get the work done,” Nathan said.

But every night has its dawn and for the night crew it always brings a sense of relief and accomplishment, as the first rays of sunlight reveal perfectly laid corduroy and a mountain manicured to perfection. As a bonus, the guys are already on the mountain on a powder day when everyone in town is gulping down coffee, digging vehicles out, and

speeding through the school zone to get a decent spot in the gondola line.

“Knowing where the best snow is on the mountain is another perk of working overnight,” adds Scott. “But sometimes coffee and a hot shower calls.”

The natural terrain at Revelstoke Mountain Resort is world class but it’s the professional touch of these unsung heroes that polishes it to perfection each night. So the next time you’re out on a clear night, look upward toward the angelic lights twinkling through the trees high on the slopes of Mount Mackenzie and be grateful for the hard graft these crews put in to guarantee your fun.

15

COMMUNITY

Website centralizes Revelstoke health resources Revelstokelife.ca provides central resource for health and social services

By Alex Cooper When Stacie Byrne started working at WorkBC several years ago, she struggled to help her clients navigate employment services and other supports available in Revelstoke. Many clients required help in areas beyond just finding a job, but knowing where and how to access those services was very challenging.

“Those who lived here seemed to know – through years of experience – what was available, and could help me along the way one piece at a time. But I wanted to find information on those services quickly, while in an appointment with a client, with the touch of a button. We needed to be able to see the bigger picture,” she related. “RevelstokeLife.ca can now help me to see the bigger picture for myself, find information quickly, and share it with others.”

RevelstokeLife.ca is a new resource for residents – a one-stop-shop for all health and social services available in the community. The site was developed through collaboration between the Revelstoke Chapter of the Rural and Remote Division of Family Practice and the Child and Youth Mental Health and Substance Use (CYMHSU) Local Action Team (both of which are funded through partnership between Doctors of BC and the Ministry of Health), as well as the City of Revelstoke Social Development, and the Revelstoke Women’s Shelter Society.

The idea of a website came about organically as the partners worked together and began discussing how to enhance access to local health and social services.

The partners agreed that it was critically important to remove the barrier of “not knowing where to turn.”

“Typically, it’s been difficult for community members to know what services are provided locally in Revelstoke and what services they have to travel out of town for, particularly for those who may

16

Revelstokelife.ca organizers Dr. Kate McCarroll, Jill Zacharias, Stacie Byrne, and Katherine Brown. Photo: Alex Cooper/Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine be new to town,” explained Katherine Brown, Divisions of Family Practice chapter coordinator. “Our intention with RevelstokeLife.ca is to develop a site that gives residents very specific information on locally accessible health care services and social supports. Giving practitioners and other health care providers access to the same information makes referrals to other services across the community easier.”

Revelstoke currently has several directories that were previously only available in hard copy or as a PDF document online, including the Newcomers Guide, the Seniors’ Resource Guide, and the Directory of Social Services. RevelstokeLife.ca is a living platform that enables residents to access resources and support with just a few simple clicks, instead of needing to browse page-by-page. Some of the old guides will be linked to the site, and others replaced by this new website completely.

“We know that pretty much everyone is looking for things online, and when they look online, they don’t want static documents. They want it to be interactive so they can peruse through and get a quick response,” explained Jill Zacharias, the City of Revelstoke’s Social Development Coordinator. “You have three seconds before you lose people. It’s that fast.”

How does the site work? The home page features a simple message, “Your Health. Your Community,” bolded on a beautiful fall photo of Revelstoke. At the top of the page, there are six drop-down menus which are set up to quickly lead people to the service they want to access.

“Community Services” provides a list of 23 subjects, including arts and culture, employment, seniors, and transportation. As an example, clicking on “Legal Services” brings up a list of local lawyers and notaries. The “Employment Services” page provides information on the Basin Business Advisors program, Community Futures, and WorkBC. “Health Care Providers” includes a wide array of health services from acupuncture to family doctors (and everything in between).

“Hospital and Outreach Services” provides in-depth information about the services provided at Queen Victoria Hospital, as well as outreach services available in the community.

Under “Mental Health Supports,” mental health services are categorized under children, youth, adults, seniors, couples, and families, making it easier for the community to find services tailored to their needs. Addiction and substance use counsellors and supports can also be found here.

“I Need Help With…” provides a list of topics or conditions one might struggle with, such as autism supports, substance use, sexual assault, elder abuse, and domestic violence.

“Safety & Emergency” provides information about a number of services such as the RCMP, Search & Rescue, and the Community Connections Food Bank, and includes a list of phone numbers residents can call if they need help.

Each service provider’s page contains a brief description, phone number, email address, street address, website, social media links, and any other available information. Listings are free of charge.

Health providers are required to be a licensed and registered practitioner in their field.

“The important part of the website is that it leads you to a human in the end,” noted Stacie Byrne, who is the Project Lead for CYHMSU. “People often feel alone because they don’t know what’s out there for them. Hopefully this leads to more people reaching out when they’re in need and a community answering that call for help.”

In addition to being an excellent portal for people needing help, RevelstokeLife. ca is also being used by practitioners and social service providers to connect with each other. With the increasing

INTRODUCING

recognition that health is impacted by social factors, doctors can use the site to quickly provide information to patients regarding other services such as counsellors, the food bank, youth programs, or seniors’ services.

“We’re hoping to increase the connectivity between practitioners in town to better service our patients,” explained Dr. Kate McCarroll. “It’s also a way for patients themselves to access the services they need, when they need them.

“We know that patients really need a team to help them stay as healthy as possible,” she continued. “When we work in silos, it’s not always in the patient’s best interest.”

While the site went live over the holidays, the partners say it is still a work in progress. Additional steps will include ensuring the site is easy to find and navigate, and using the results of a pop-up user feedback survey to inform how the site grows and evolves.

“We want to be sure we are incorporating important feedback from both the community at large as well as practitioners,” says Brown. “we have received an incredible response to the development of this site and service providers have been very helpful in providing their information. It’s clear that the community sees value in a tool like this and has really stepped up to help us launch it.”

Service providers are encouraged to complete the ‘Contact’ form on the site if they would like to be listed on RevelstokeLife.ca, or if their information changes.

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OUTDOORS

18

Women’s sled culture thriving in Revelstoke Checking in on the growing women’s sledding scene Words and photos by Cassandra Prochera

We all see them in town. Driving the big trucks with sled decks, hauling trailers, and fuelling up at our local Big Eddy Station. Early morning lineups of neon one-piece snowsuits in the cafes. The pinks, greens, purples and blues — all with extra ponytails and lip chip in the pockets. This is just a glimpse, and all of what one may see of our local female sledders in Revelstoke. If you are someone new to town or have not experienced the sport of sledding for yourself, one cannot help but wonder. Where did she find the courage to load that 850 onto the back of that F-350 pickup truck? Where are they going to ride, with who, and how do they make it look so effortless?”

There is no denying that this rugged logging town is surround by some of the most advanced mountain terrain for sledding, and is well known for it! Revelstoke, a snowmobile mecca, calls on riders from all regions to see, experience and take on these amazing mountain ranges for themselves. Those who live in the community, however, all come from a similar mindset. That is in sharing the same love for a lifestyle outdoors, in one way or another.

The thriving female sled culture in Revelstoke stands out for the strength they carry in numbers, as well as their experiences on the mountain. These experiences they use to learn from and to share with one another. All to help overcome the challenges they have faced in the past while learning and progressing in this incredible sport for snowmobiling. From the loading and unloading of a sled, to exploring a new and more advanced zone to ride. The energy is empowering and truly inspirational when witnessed first hand. These are the local girls in our community, and this is an authentic look at this sport from behind the lashes in Revelstoke.

Chelsea Alford — “By just seeing the women around town there is no knowledge of how much support they have for each other in the sport.

Women are able to go out and cheer each other

on no matter what the outcome of an attempt is when punching further. You would be surprised how strong women are when working to get someone unstuck!”

Nadine Overwater — “I think a big piece of what people who don’t sled don’t necessarily see is the empowerment of women riding together with other women really gives.”

Getting started: the who, what, where, and how Starting anything for the first time can be daunting. In this case pairing that with all of the start-up costs, avalanche knowledge, and terrain awareness can make sledding a commitment before day one. This is a must before even stepping foot on the mountain. Anyone who sleds knows even that is just the tip of the iceberg. The community of Revelstoke has many leaders and mentors that offer a great service geared to help the ladies progress from any skill level, whether they’re just starting out, or looking to sharpen up their style on the skis between the trees.

Local female rider and pioneer in the female sled industry, Nadine Overwater, offers her very women’s-specific sled camps and jump clinics.

Her La Nina name has become well known not only across the province, but also across the country, and has even made its way down to the northern States.

Nadine Overwater — “In the past it has been a very male-dominated sport and really daunting to start getting out there with just a group of girls.

Luckily in this town we are surrounded by strong and smart women who are capable of handling a machine in the backcountry and managing the avalanche risks and machine limitations. They can be confident going out and exploring, or just enjoying a day in the snow with likeminded girls.

Seeing other capable women is a really great

Above: First tracks in the Monashee Mountain powder is what it’s all about.

Centre: Getting ready for the ride.

Below: Nadine Overwater navigates through deep Revelstoke powder.

Photos by Cassandra Prochera

19

motivator.”

The sport can take those starting out by accident on a day trip to a cabin, or backcountry access by surprise, and leaves them hooked. Soon they are heading back for more throttle therapy, or in other cases to work because they now also need a sled of their own! Balancing the good days with the learning days, knowing that those around you are there to support you and releasing the worry of holding the group up can be a key in the beginner stages. Rewards come in the time together, and taking in some of the greatest and most stunning views.

pulling your sled one way or another, but can limit you if you do not have the room to move with arms slightly, or a lot shorter in length.

Mods for the rider

The physical demand of sledding can render a rider lost for words when trying to describe the amount of energy that is needed for a full day on the mountain. How do they stay fuelled when burning so many calories?

Like any good sports bra, go-to plaid, or Friday night heel, it has to fit to feel good, be manageable, and work with you while you work to play. The same goes for sledding, and your own sled specifically. The ladies in town know this, and make the modifications to make the pow turns sharp and hill climbs clean.

Anyone can jump onto a stock sled, take it out for a day or season, learning bits here and there, and somewhat make it work. The truth is though, that if you really want to progress and make things easier you will need to make the changes to make it happen. Some of our ladies standing 5 feet tall, 110 pounds with smaller frames do all they can to their 500-pound snow machine so they can continue the progression and keep developing their skills properly.

Lowering risers to hip height or slightly higher helps to bring power back to the centre of your body, allowing you to use your whole body while riding, rather than just using your shoulders and arms. Also this makes it easier to transfer weight from side to side when shifting and dipping your hips. Sway bars can be handy with 20

Popular modifications include shaving down a seat or getting an after-market seat.

With this feature swapped, turning through Revelstoke’s waves of pow can feel like a dance from one riser to the next. A smaller seat again allows more space, and makes shifting your legs from one side to the other feel much more effortless and much quicker. Shorter brake levers and finger throttles also help smaller hands get a better grip on the bars.

“As a female, being prepared comes naturally and there is never a lack of snacks out there!” says Nadine Overwater. “That being said, I train my body to use less fuel and rely on water more — try and eat high protein and carb foods. My reasoning is more geared towards survival and if you have to spend the night — if your body is always hungry it makes it really difficult.”

When loading and unloading, gearing up and bossing around a 500-pound machine in ponytail deep snow, all while wearing an avalanche pack and suited head to toe, a girl can burn some serious energy seriously fast. Keeping your energy levels up is not just important for the physical energy required, but also for mental energy and focus to keep alert while moving through potential avalanche terrain.

Keep breakfast king if you want to be queen of the mountain. A big breakfast high in protein and healthy fats helps to keep blood sugar levels remain stable. This is important to prevent crashes later. Having a bigger meal at the start of the day also

OUTDOORS

Left: Into the trees and beyond.

Below: The crew pauses for a break in the backcountry.

Photos by Cassandra Prochera

will carry you through to the end of the day. Eating too much at one time while out in the backcountry can leave you feeling heavy and make for slower reaction times.

Lighter snacks like homemade protein bars, apples and peanut butter and of course pipe cooked sandwiches are a go to for the girls!

Hot tea and honey! Warmth with a bit of quick and easy to digest sugar keeps the body feeling light, energized and the chills at bay. Local lady, Kelly Tedesco shares this tip and swears by it. If you are one who has seen her on the mountain you would then also have to believe it. She always has her travel Thermos packed, and energy for the biggest mountain days.

Our girls from every angle contribute all they can to support each other while progressing. From ski pulling, technique sharing, and recipe swapping, they have it covered. Jaana Rutledge has provided great advice for the girls. Being a motivated fitness and health specialist based out of her family owned and operated gym here in Revelstoke, Trans-Canada Fitness. Jaana is a great example of the strong females in the community. She supports and shares her knowledge on the topic of how to maintain a strong body throughout the winter season, and of course also how to properly recover and repair after such big days.

Sam Stutke — “Health and fitness is important to me. Believe it or not, but sledding is a crazy workout. A typical day for me would be a nice stretch when waking up, an omelette for breakfast along with some fruit or a smoothie. I like to pack with me snacks like trail mix, apples and peanut butter, protein bars. This is all to maintain energy throughout the day. Then of course a nice dinner to recover, along with some hot tub time and again a good stretch to be ready for day two! I eat a lot of veggies and protein, and drink a lot of water, but really you have to find what works best for your own body.”

It it pretty clear that maintenance and recovery for yourself is just as important as it is for your sled. This you can see in the girls while they flex their muscles, and put the faces behind the term, “mountain strong.”

Desperate times call for desperate measures, some say. Others may say it’s not uncommon or it is standard procedure to pee in a snow hole kicked out beside your sled while your onsie snowsuit is wrapped up in your arms from behind you. Paired with helmet hair don’t care, slightly smudged mascara, and a grin from ear to ear.

The ladies are not shy and are no strangers to doing whatever it takes to be comfortable in the backcountry. It’s moments like this that remind us of why we are out there in the first place, and to have a good time, and another day on the mountain.

This being with the people you hold close to your heart, and the ones you trust your life with.

The girls have done it, live it and share it. All of the triumphs and hard lessons learned. Ski pull after ski pull after ski pull. Breaking trail and coming home in the dark, or early because they have done a good job of letting go on some much needed throttle therapy. The cheers are loud for each other as they break through each learning curve together, or successfully get all the ice off of ones lashes without the outcome of racoon eyes.

For Revelstoke this strong female mentality may be the norm, but this standard is a high bar that continues to rise as the women’s sled culture continues to thrive from one season to the next. Here’s to another season on the sleds, and to the girls who keep up the stoke up as they keep pushing further. — Cheers ladies!

21

OUTDOORS

The Alpine Club of Canada in Revelstoke

Revelstoke residents are behind the creation of the new Columbia Mountains section of the Alpine Club of Canada. The new section will be involved in a number of initiatives, including programs for beginners interested in getting into alpine pursuits.

By Louise Stanway

mountains or even go on a hike on their own, but would be game to try it with experienced people,” said Ben Wilkey, a born-and-bred Revelstoke local and one of the founding members of the ACC CM section. “The goal of our section is to get these people together so that they can go on adventures, learn how to travel safely in the mountains and have some fun doing it” he explained.

Accessing the backcountry is not always easy. Whether it’s down to lack of experience, knowledge, or simply lack of peers to get out there with — sometimes the natural beauty that is on our doorstep can be just too far out of reach. The recently formed Columbia Mountains section of the Alpine Club of Canada (ACC) wishes to change that.

The club will be working with ACMG guides to help organize trips for beginners through to experienced mountain users. Introductory ski touring trips to Balu Pass, all the way up to accredited AST 2 courses are already up on the calendar. In summer, courses such as, ‘Beginner Rock Climbing and Mountaineering’ and ‘Advanced Alpine Climbing’ will be available to members.

The new section aims to teach people to ‘travel safely in the mountains and have some fun doing it’

So, what exactly is the ACC and how does it operate? The ACC is a guiding hand for those looking to step out of their comfort zones and into the backcountry. Since its inception in 1906, the club has gained over 15,000 members and has served as a voice for mountain users nationwide. With 24 regional sections across the country, the club is a powerful tool for uniting communities 22

in protecting local, natural spaces.

The newest Columbia Mountains section — that covers the Purcell, Selkirk, Monashee and Caribou mountain ranges — was formed when, in the Fall of 2018, a handful of like-minded mountain enthusiasts came together with a common goal. Fuelled by a determination to preserve and protect our historical mountains, the committee now focuses on facilitating the journey for those looking to experience the backcountry, but may not have otherwise had the means to do so.

Breaking down the “exclusivity” of the backcountry is the first step towards achieving this goal. “Some people don’t have the skills necessary to climb

The CM committee is seeking to operate a “user driven” section, that will cater to the shifting needs of its members.

This means that those affiliated will have an opportunity to voice what kinds of trips they would like to see offered and potentially lead trips too.

The ACC may even help you find your future ski-touring crew. “We want the

section to plug into the local outdoor community, get to know each other and maybe give back a little to the mountains that we all love to spend time in,” Wilkey explained. The section will be hosting casual social nights for members to get to know one another, as well as community clean-ups and trail maintenance days.

What’s more, being a member of the national ACC gets you a discount on the use of their extensive backcountry hut network across B.C. and Alberta. It also allows members to sign up for any of the national led trips including the annual General Mountaineering Camp, Winter Camps, Winter Skills, Summer Camps, Summer Skills and Leadership Training.

Whatever your ability level, there’s never been a better time to get involved in the ACC. To learn more about membership perks and trips, or for more information, check out the Facebook group ‘Alpine Club of Canada Columbia Mountains Section’, or follow the blog on their website at www.acccolumbiamountains.com.

There’s more online at

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NEWS

Wolf removal numbers at 29 for Revelstoke area

By Aaron Orlando The number of wolves killed in the Revelstoke area in a program designed to aid endangered mountain caribou now sits at 29.

In 2015, the B.C. forests ministry began a wolf removal program in several areas of B.C. in an effort to help recover endangered mountain caribou populations. The ministry cited studies that showed 40 per cent of deaths of adult caribou that the government investigated were caused by wolves.

The program uses helicopter-based teams to locate and kill the wolves in several areas in B.C.. In the South Peace, they are Narraway, Kennedy Siding, Klinse-Za (Moberly), and Quintette. Revelstoke is the most recent addition to the wolf removal program. The first kills in B.C. started 2015, but the program didn’t commence in the Revelstoke area until 2017.

In that year 11 were killed in the Revelstoke area, and 18 more in 2018, for a total of 29 in the Revelstoke area.

Provincially, the program has killed 519 wolves since 2015.

The government estimates the “median” total wolf population in B.C. to be about 8,500, but admits to not having a good understanding of the exact number, which could be much higher or lower. The province’s wolf removal program removed

The provincial wolf removal program continues in the Revelstoke area. the equivalent of 6.1 per cent of the total “median” wolf population over the past four years.

The B.C. government is calling the program a success, citing mountain caribou population increases. A forests ministry spokesperson said the Klinse-Za herd has increased by 57% since the program started, and prior to that, the heard had been declining about 5–7% annually.

The Kennedy Siding and Quintette herds are increasing by 9% annually, and their populations have both increased since the program started, by 32% and 26%,

respectively. The wolf kill intervention was one of several recovery measures taken during that period. The Columbia North herd population is listed as stable.

The aerial wolf removal program is one of the most controversial parts of efforts to recover mountain caribou populations. Opponents argue the action is an unnatural intrusion on the natural environment that has unwanted side effects, such as disrupting the role wolves play in the ecosystem. They also argue the government should place emphasis on other recovery options, such as restricting

forestry, resource projects, and backcountry recreational use. Proponents of the program argue it’s an unfortunate but necessary interim intervention needed to help recover herds of mountain caribou that face extirpation.

A Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development spokesperson said the wolf removal is, “absolutely necessary to ensure the survival of these iconic and culturally significant animals. The cessation of the maternity penning project shows how important it is to continue the predator management program in the area to ensure the Columbia North herd does not lose any caribou.”

In February of 2017 the provincial government announced plans for a provincial caribou recovery program, which is budgeted to cost $27 million. That plan was scheduled for initial public unveiling in late 2017 or early 2018, but has now been pushed back.

The new caribou recovery program is expected to have impacts on backcountry recreation and forestry operations in the Revelstoke area, but the extent won’t be known until the plan is revealed.

The province is acting under pressure from the federal government, which has threatened to step in using federal species at risk legislation, a move that would likely mean even greater restrictions on current backcountry use than under a provincial mountain caribou recovery scheme.

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Eligibility criteria (like language skills, skilled work experience, or education) have to be met and requirements fulfilled. For some, obtaining a work permit or permanent residence can be an easy and straightforward process, while Nadja Luckau is now offering immigration services for Revelstoke residents. for others, it turns into a seemingly never-ending fight to sort through contradictory informaWe live in a beautiful corner of the ways to stay and work in Canada. tion, find and fill out the right forms, and world, and we see a lot of international Many newcomers to Revelstoke are gather all the necessary documentation. visitors come through Revelstoke. Many able to take advantage of International This is where immigration lawyers and come for a quick ski trip, and some spend Experience Canada programs like the consultants come in. While you do not a full season or even years here. A lot Working Holiday or Young Professionals need to hire an authorized representative of the visitors fall in love with what this categories. This is a great way to get to to help with your case, it may make all country has to offer and are looking for know the country and get an idea of the the difference. They are experts in the

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A Revelstoke group is trying to create a private, non-profit athletic facility including a climbing gym, squash courts and several other options.

Group seeks to create non-profit athletic facility Climbing, squash, track and other facilities in the mix

By Melissa Jameson Projects like the Revelstoke Athletic and Climbing Centre usually have a long story to tell. After years of hard work and dedication the story is almost finished — but there’s still a few chapters left.

Work on a possible multi-use facility began a few years ago when Nicole Fricot, then City of Revelstoke director of community economic development, got the squash club, climbing groups, and the golf club talking about a multi-use recreation facility at the Revelstoke Golf Course. Climbers in Revelstoke have long wanted to create an indoor climbing facility. The squash club is looking to relocate because their existing facility is in dire need of renovations, and the cityowned golf club’s clubhouse needs major renovations.

Plans for a facility at the golf club didn’t pan out but it led to the creation of the Revelstoke Athletic & Climbing Centre (RAAC) advisory group. Mainly focused on squash and climbing, the committee is also aware of other sport

recreation groups in need of space.

“There’s a number of sport rec groups in town that have various needs and interest. It’s not just squash and climbing.

Clearly there are other folks interested,” said Ian Tomm, chair of the RAAC. “Revelstoke is a pretty big, wonderful place. The current infrastructure is being used well and this is an opportunity for a new athletic facility.”

multi-sport recreation facility. Potential uses identified include an indoor climbing gym, squash and other court space, a 200-metre indoor running track, and high performance athletic development.

While there are many options for possible use, Tomm said the facility would not include any aquatic sports, saying the costs would be too high.

“The justification for a climbing gym in Revelstoke is easy and squash brings an established revenue stream,” Tomm said.

Both Tomm and RAAC vice-chair Kevin Dorrius say the multi-use sport facility won’t be built on the backs of local taxpayers. They say the facility would be an independent, non-profit indoor recreation facility. A significant portion of the project will be self-generated and the RAAC advisory group is working on a fundraising plan, which they hope will raise at least one-third of the potential $10 million, 30-thousand-square-foot project.

Tomm said while the project is far from completion it’s clear there are motivated indviduals not only in squash and climbing, but other groups as well including boxing, roller derby, and ski clubs.

Survey seeks public Where is the project input on needs, benat now? efits and opportuwith Tomm and Dorrius nities of new multi- it’sSpeaking clear the two are excited about their progress. The two said the advisory use sport facility group is currently looking at a few The RAAC recently unveiled a resident survey intended to investigate the needs, benefits and opportunities for a new

different parcels of land and speaking with owners, but aren’t able to provide further details at this point.

“It’s really the Achilles heel of projects like this,” Tomm said of the need for land.

The size of the facility is still unknown, but would include an indoor climbing facility and court space for squash, but feedback so far has indicated interest for more general court space for sports like volleyball, basketball and pickleball.

Tomm said climbing is the most unique user as they’re looking for a competition-standard facility and would like to see a lead wall that matches international standards — a whopping 17 meters high. The majority of the climbing space, however, will be much lower and since climbing is a spectator sport there’s likely to be a mezzanine level viewing area for family and friends.

“Revelstoke is full of climbers, it’s part of the culture of the town and outdoor climbing both sport climbing as well as alpine and everything in-between is amazing. The thing that is missing is indoor,” said Tomm.

Revelstoke’s squash club may have an existing facility, but they’ve outgrown it. Dorrius, who is involved with the squash club, said the group looked into renovating their existing site but doing so would open up a can of worms in terms of grant applications since they rent the space, rather than own it.

Instead, he said collaborating with the climbing groups means the potential for a staffed space that would allow for drop-ins, something the current squash club is unable to accommodate.

It’s clear the RAAC wants to build a world-class facility. As Dorrius puts it, once completed it will put Revelstoke on the map once again, but in a different way.

“It’s going to get attention,” he said.

27

FOOD

Old School Eatery fuses timeless with contemporary trends Revelstoke’s It took me a minute to get the name of Revelstoke’s newest restaurant: Old School Eatery. Aha — as in its location in the old Mountain View school building on Third Street West. The historic former school building has been extensively renovated and transformed by a collection of new tenants including Jones Distilling, a spacious co-working space upstairs, and now a locally-owned restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Old School’s bright, open-space concept features a blend of the new and old, meant to create a classic fusion.

The elevated white ceilings and walls are framed by large windows with a south-southeast view, all anchored with original black wainscoting leftover from the restaurant’s past life as a classroom.

The sandblasted radiators are originals.

Copper and black checkerboard tiles draw your eyes to the room’s centrepiece raised bar. The walls are lined with historic photos from the old school, from newsboy-capped children in the ‘30s, to a sparsely mustachioed basketball team in short shorts from the ‘70s.

Restaurateur Chris van der Linden has a lifetime of restaurant experience, starting out working alongside his parents at Vancouver’s original sushi restaurant, Geisha Gardens, located in Vancouver’s downtown corporate district. Since then he’s held many restaurant and nightclub positions, most recently with Revelstoke Mountain Resort’s food service wing, where he oversaw the Rockford, and helped the company open new locations of the franchise across B.C. When it came time to strike out on his own, van der Linden sought out a niche in the increasingly crowded Revelstoke restaurant scene, originally planning to create a dawn-to-dusk diner. When the Mountain View location came up, he changed plans. “I just thought it was too nice to put a diner in, but I still wanted to keep that comfort food feel,” van der Linen said.

He adjusted plans and is targeting the gap between casual and fine dining, both in decor and on the menu. “I wanted it to feel like it could have been here 100 years ago,” he said of the interior.

Van der Linden surveyed local menus and sought to bring new options to the table. “I knew that whatever I opened I wanted to serve chicken and waffles,” van der Linden said of their lunchtime staple. Other Revelstoke originals are Bayou Bouillabaisse with catfish, mussels, and prawns; a fried chicken sandwich with catfish, braised Korean pork belly tacos, and a seared duck breast main. These originals are in addition to standards including steaks, burgers, and pasta dishes.

“We try to offer things no one else had,” van der Linden said. “I feel like this is what we’ve been missing.”

For van der Linden, attracting a di28

verse local crowd is a priority. The menu features a number of starter and tapas selections, making it a spot to meet up for wine or beer in an atmosphere niche in between the pub and local fine dining options.

Van der Linden also wants Old School Eatery to be known for its service. We chatted in his first week after opening, and despite the 1,000-yard-stare of someone who’s just built and opened a restaurant, he’s still eagle-eyed on the details, getting up during the interview to dust off and overturn a cushion.

“The whole idea is to target locals,” van der Linden says. There’s lots of money to be made in the seasonal rushes, but his path to success is building a loyal local clientele who come back for the original food and consistent service.

Old School Eatery is located at 616 Third Street West and is open early for breakfast and late for dinner.

Top: Inside the new Old School Eatery located in the Mountain View building on Third Street West.

Centre: Old School Eatery owner Chris van der Linden.

Below: The bar features local favourites on tap, and a long wine list.

Photos: Aaron Orlando/ Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine

Variety of notes create new flavour chords

By Heather Hood A fun mix of wines this month that are full of flavour. Even though the two reds taste very differently from each other, they both seem to share many similar tasting notes, which is something that is always very interesting about wine tasting.

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Marionette Entwined, 2015 Salmon Arm, B.C. $22.74 A nice blend Siegerrebe, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer grapes. Siegerrebe is of German origin and is derived from crossing Gewurztraminer and Madeleine Angevine. It’s a large reddish grape that is best utilized by blending it with other varietals. This wine is very flavourful on the palate with hints of lime, stone fruit, pear, and big floral notes. It is acidic on the mouth but has a lovely creamy finish with flavours of honey, spice, and lychee.

Pairing: Enjoy on its own, spicy curry or with cheese.

Moraine Cliff Red, 2017 Naramata, B.C. $20.56 A good value for an Okanagan red, Cliff Red is a blend of Merlot and Malbec. The wine has an aromatic nose, flavours of ripe cherry, cassis, anise, and tobacco. If you give this wine some time to breathe, it really it really brings out the flavours.

Pairing: Enjoy on its own, with Tomato sauce or roasted meat

Stags Hollow Syrah, 2016 Okanagan Falls, B.C. $29.44

©Aveda Corp.

This Syrah has a beautiful purple colour, featuring a nose with aromas of black olive, vanilla and oak. The palate has flavours of tobacco, cherry, blackberry with a hint of pepper and violets. The wine has nice balanced tannins and the flavours really coat the palate with a long finish.

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29

HEALTH

Cold and flu kung fu Give cold and flu the heave-ho

By Shannon MacLean RHN, CHNC, BA-IR ‘Snot a good idea... …to reach for dairy, banana, or oranges when you have a cold, as they are mucus-forming foods.

Think Zinc!

Zinc affects multiple aspects of the immune system and is crucial for normal development and function of cells mediating immunity. Zinc can be found in pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, seafood, and quality meats.

Cruciferous queens Cruciferous vegetables contain glucosinates which are broken down into indole-3-carbinol and sulfurophane.

Indole-3-carbinol is known to improve immune system function, while sulforaphane reduces oxidative stress and improves the liver’s ability to eliminate toxins. Cruciferous vegetables are also high in antioxidant vitamin C, which improves immune function and acts as an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory, helping to dry up a runny nose. Fiber in these foods helps to regulate blood sugar, feed good bacteria, and encourage bowel regularity. Cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, arugula, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, swiss chard, bok choy, broccoli sprouts, and brussels sprouts.

All yum alliums Alliums include onions, chives, leeks, and garlic. These foods are not only a delicious beginning to many meals, they are high in antioxidants and organosulfur compounds. Allicin is a potent antimicrobial that can fend off bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Alliums also contain gallic acid and quercetin, flavonoid antioxidants that are anti-microbial.

Liquid gold Grandma was right, soup is a curative.

Bone broth boosts immunity due to the presence of amino acids like arginine, glutamine, and cysteine. Chicken soup was studied by the American College of Chest Physicians to alleviate symptoms of the common cold by clearing mucus, opening respiratory pathways, and providing easily digested nutrition. Bone broth also contains both electrolytes and water, which hydrate better than water alone. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to your simmering broth as this will help pull nutrients from the bone matrix. Vegetarians can enjoy vegetable-broth based soups or can make broth with mineral-rich kombu seaweed.

Ginger tea Ginger makes a great base for many winter teas. It is anti microbial, anti-inflammatory, and a warming diaphoretic, meaning it promotes sweating, increasing 30

elimination of wastes through the skin.

Ginger is also an expectorant, helping a cough become more productive by increasing watery secretion across the mucous membranes. Fresh, sliced ginger can be simmered or steeped. Lemon juice is a nice addition as it is high in vitamin C, antibacterial, and stimulates digestive secretions. Adding raw honey can soothe sore throat and coughs, and has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It’s best to add honey in moderation and avoid simmering to preserve its phytonutrients and enzymes.

Sufficient sleep Sleep bolsters our immune system, greatly helping to prevent infection, ward off sickness, and speed healing when we are ill. In a study at the University of California, more than 150 participants were inoculated with a live culture of the common cold virus. In those sleeping five hours per night, the infection rate was almost 50%, while those sleeping seven hours or more per night had an infection rate of just 18%.

Move your lymph The lymphatic system works with the rest of the immune system to resist disease, fight infection, and maintain fluid balance.

Since it doesn’t have its own pump system, it relies on muscle movement to be helped along. Yoga, stretching, walking, and dry brushing all help move the lymph, in turn clearing congestion and improving immune function when fighting the common cold.

Run for sun The sun’s rays are germicidal, while resulting vitamin D can modulate the innate and adaptive immune response. Sufficient levels have been proven to reduce the incidence of seasonal influenza. Exposure to Revelstoke’s elusive winter sun often requires your choice of a worth-while gondola ride, snowshoe, sled, or skin track, as well as a Vitamin D3 supplement.

Cut down caffeine Staying well hydrated helps loosen and clear out nasal congestion. Excess coffee consumption can contribute to dehydration and raise cortisol levels, in turn depressing your immune system.

Skip sugar As well as being highly inflammatory, sugar depresses the immune system, making your white blood cells sluggish and much less effective. Studies at University

In a handful of healthy soil, there is more bacterial biodiversity than you will find in all the animals of the Amazon basin. of California have shown processed sugar can cause a 50% drop in immune function for up to five hours after consumption.

Easy on the alcohol Alcohol burdens the liver, contributes to dehydration/congestion, impairs function of immune cells, disrupts ciliary function in the upper airways, and weakens barrier function of the epithelia in the lower

airways.

Shannon MacLean is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist with a BA in International Relations. Open for bookings at Balu Yoga and Wellness, she is currently studying Functional Medicine and is passionate about wild foraging, recipe creation, and all things health and wellness.

SHANNON MACLEAN

RHN, CHNC, BA-IR

Registered Holistic Nutrition.

BOOK NOW www.baluyoga.com

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