organizations ready to provide emergency sheltering, p · 11. City of Revelstoke breaks down emergency alert systems, p · 12.
Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is a free monthly publication featuring the best of Revelstoke outdoor life, food, style, visitor experiences, lifestyles, entertainment, home style and healthy living.
We are an independent, locally owned publication dedicated to showcasing our amazing mountain town and the great people who create the stoke.
Each issue we distribute 2,000 copies to public venues across Revelstoke, including hotel rooms, shops, restaurants, cafes, community centres — everywhere people meet.
For all inquiries, please contact us at info@revelstokemountaineer.com
For more local news visit www.revelstokemountaineer.com
250 571 9525 info@revelstokemountaineer.com Discourse Community Publishing 213-1130 Sun Peaks Rd, Sun Peaks,B.C. V0E 5N0, Canada
PUBLISHER
Brandi Schier info@revelstokemountaineer.com
PARTNERSHIPS SPECIALIST
Anam Rahman anam@revelstokemountaineer.com
EDITOR
Hollie Ferguson info@revelstokemountaineer.com
REPORTER
Lys Morton lys@revelstokemountaineer.com
EDITORIAL DESIGN/ADVERTISING DESIGN/ WEBSITE Chris Payne chris@revelstokemountaineer.com
Introduction
We have a lot to update you on in this month’s issue. With summer in full swing and wildfire season already underway in some areas, we wanted to be sure Revelstokians know how to get information in case of emergencies. Check out our interview with city officials to learn more! Plus, we chatted with local organizations preparing to provide emergency shelter in case of severe heat, smoke or fires this summer.
It was a great reminder of how connected this community is. We have amazing resources to depend on when things get hard. We also have amazing summer activities prepped, like REVY.Live Outside! The lineup and show dates are now available, and we’ve got the whole list for you to plan what concerts to check out. For those new to town, REVY.Live Outside is a free concert series hosted at the Grizzly Plaza.
Be sure to flip through for municipal updates, regional happenings and local joys.
Happy summer!
- Lys Morton, community journalist
COVER AND INSET PHOTO: Edie Noble impressed Revy Bowl Jam 2024 judges with her bold tricks, including landing and rocking off the lower pool ledge. Photo by Lys Morton
6 EVENTS
Find out what’s happening in and around Revelstoke this month in the events calendar. Don’t forget to add your community event online at revelstokemountaineer.com.
8
NEWS BRIEFS
Evan Parliament joins Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators board.
Revelstoke Boxing Club is on the hunt for new home.
10
THIS MONTH AT COUNCIL
Revelstoke City Council covers infrastructure updates, recreation, housing and more.
11
REVELSTOKE ORGANIZATIONS READY TO PROVIDE EMERGENCY SHELTERING
From heavy smoke and extreme temperatures to out of town evacuees, these organizations are preparing for wildfire season.
12
CITY OF REVELSTOKE BREAKS DOWN EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEMS ON THE CUSP OF WILDFIRE SEASON
Download the Alertable app, sign up for the City Views newsletter and check the city website to monitor emergency communications, staff say.
14
KYLE SCOTT, REVELSTOKE CONTENT CREATOR HIGHLIGHTS FIRST RESPONDER STORIES
Scott is the latest Revelstoke local to receive a TELUS STORYHIVE grant.
15
REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT PROVIDES UPDATES ON STAFF HOUSING, UTILITIES UPGRADES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
‘We really sat down with this project and reimagined the resort,’ Jason Kelder, RMR chief development officer shares.
16
REVELSTOKE YOUTH SKATERS SEND IT AT REVY BOWL JAM
The Go Skate Day celebration launched some friendly competition with youth stakers taking the lead.
17
Try your hand at July’s puzzles and check your answers for last month! 11 14 15 17 16
REVY.LIVE OUTSIDE ANNOUNCES SUMMER 2024 LINE UP
Musicians from across Canada will be performing throughout REVY.Live Outside at Grizzly Plaza, hosted by Arts Revelstoke.
18
PUZZLES
JULY 2024 CALENDAR
SATURDAY, JULY 6
REVELSTOKE DERAILERS ROLLER DERBY HOME GAME
Revelstoke Forum, 1100 Vernon Ave., 6:15 p.m. – 9 p.m.
The free summer concert series returns with talent from around Canada. Concerts start at 6:30 p.m. and everyone is welcome to bring a seat down and enjoy the performances.
FRIDAY, JULY 5
K-OS LIVE AT THE LAST DROP PUB
Last Drop Pub, 200 3 St. West, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
One of Canada’s top Hip-Hop artists brings the party to Revelstoke’s very own Last Drop Pub. The Toronto musician may be known around the world for his song Crabbuckit, but you’ll be sure to hear a range of hits. Limited door spots available.
Come down and cheer on your Revelstoke Derailers as they take on Okanagan Shuswap Roller Derby Association in the first home game of the season. All ages are welcome to the family-friendly event, and there will be a beverage garden on site. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, cash only. Kids 12 and under are free. Swing by the River City Pub for an after party.
SATURDAY, JULY 6
“IT’S PRONOUNCED GARRIDGE, MATE” CONCERT
The Last Drop, 200 3rd St. West, 9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Nelson’s Dubconscious revisits "It's Pronounced Garridge, Mate" with a Revelstoke vibe. Rock out to a night of UK Garage, 2-Step and Breakbeats that have created a core genre of music. Music starts at 9 p.m. Tickets at the door are $5 until 10 p.m., $10 for the rest of the evening.
THURSDAY, JULY 11
DROP-IN ART NIGHT
Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Bring your latest art project down to the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre’s kitchen studio and
enjoy some free space and time to work with other local artists. Bring some snacks, your favorite tea and all supplies needed for an evening of creativity.
SATURDAY, JULY 13
ROLLER DISCO NIGHT
Revelstoke Forum, 1100 Vernon Ave., 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Say it ain’t so, the last Roller Disco Night of the season? Grab your roller skates or blades or rent some provided by the Revelstoke Roller Derby and enjoy a night of disco fun. All ages welcome, all skill levels encouraged.
Minecraft experts ages seven to 12, come on down and enjoy a Minecraft focused adventure camp at the Revelstoke library. Experts at the camp will show you some tricks, tips and ways to level up.
FRIDAY, JULY 19
CANADIAN AEROPRESS CHAMPIONSHIPS REGIONAL QUALIFIER
Dose Coffee Roastery, 1960 Big Eddy Rd., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Calling all coffee lovers, come down and see the techniques used in AeroPress brewing as the top contenders in the region aim for a national spot. Free for all ages. Check out the demonstrations, drinks, live music and more.
FRIDAY, JULY 19 TO SUNDAY, JULY 21
REVY PADDLE FEST
Multiple locations and times Revelstoke Paddlesport Association hosts Revy Paddle Fest. Check out kayak races, stand-up paddle board races, the family-friendly Ball Race and Poker Paddle, live music and more. Check out revypaddlefest.com for tickets and more information.
SATURDAY, JULY 20
ROLLER DERBY OPEN GENDER BOUTS
Revelstoke Forum, 1100 Vernon Ave., 6:15 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Come down and cheer on your Revelstoke Derailers in the final home game of the season. This
Head on down and cheer on the Revelstoke Derailers at one of the home bouts this season.
Photo provided by Revelstoke Roller Derby
Whether you plan to race the waters, play a round of paddle poker or just enjoy some live music, make sure you check out Revy Paddle Fest. Photo provided by Revy Paddle Fest
time skaters from all over B.C. will be coming down to duke it out. All ages are welcome to the family-friendly event, and there will be a beverage garden on site. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door, cash only. Kids 12 and under are free. Swing by the River City Pub for an after party.
All ages are welcome to come enjoy Evan the Juggler’s free show at the Revelstoke library. Hailing from the Okanagan Valley, Evan brings a high energy show sure to cause lots of laughs and cheering.
THURSDAY, JULY 25 TO SUNDAY, JULY 28
REVELSTOKE
WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL
Multiple locations and times
The fourth annual Wildflower Festival returns to celebrate all things alpine flowers! Catch a free shuttle from downtown Revelstoke to the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park, check out the various educational workshops taking place, enjoy an edible plant tour and so much more. Check out the entire events listing at seerevelstoke.com/event/revelstoke-wildflower-festival.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 31
FACIAL PROPORTIONS AND CHARACTER CREATION ART CLASS
Kids ages seven to 12 are welcome to learn some tips, tricks and practices for manga style art. Learn about face proportions and enjoy some time with other local artists. Free to attend.
There's a range of musicaians playing every night at the Grizzly Plaza with this year's REVY.Live Outside. Photo by Christine Love Hewitt
Revelstoke Wildflower Festival is a surefire way to appreciate the range of flowers that delight every spring and summer. Photo by Robb Thompson
Check out Canadian rapper and singer-songwriter k-os at The Last Drop.
Photo by Moo
EVAN PARLIAMENT JOINS CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF
MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATORS BOARD
By Lys Morton
Evan Parliament, Revelstoke’s chief administrative officer, has been elected to the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) board of directors. This new position will allow Parliament to mentor Canada’s future municipal administrators and showcase Revelstoke’s municipal strategies.
Parliament took on the four-year long volunteer role with a focus on accessing the experiences of other municipal administrators, while providing tools for those entering the field.
“They're going up against political uncertainty, abuse from some elected officials, abuse from some residents,” he said of municipality administrators. “How do you manage that political acumen?”
A chance to better connect with CAMA and the resources in other municipalities will be a win for Revelstoke as well.
“Once you network with all your colleagues across Canada, you never know what nugget you find. You can borrow best practices from other communities,” Parliament said. “You can get leads on federal grants.”
A project on Parliament's mind that he hopes CAMA can help navigate is the enhancement of the Revelstoke airport to support future flight schools. Networking with communities similar to Revelstoke’s size that have previously expanded their airports could help Revelstoke from running into familiar barriers.
Parliament also hopes to bring more attention to what Revelstoke has accomplished over the years.
“One of the first things I’ve asked is that a board meeting be held in Revelstoke in the next two years.”
Parliament wants to take that opportunity to show Revelstoke to municipal representatives from across Canada and share what strategies the city is using in a time of growth, housing hurdles and resource concerns.
“Bio-Heat is more popular now than it's ever been before. Revelstoke was tackling this in the 2000s,” Parliament shared as one example of what Revelstoke could offer other municipalities. “We need to showcase that.”
Other municipalities are trying to navigate outdoor spaces and accessible recreation, and Parliament stressed that Revelstoke’s trail network and Illecillewaet Greenbelt Trail are projects done right in giving residents and guests opportunities.
“This next generation of staffers, they’re going to be a lot smarter than me. This whole world is a village now where we can access other ideas.”
REVELSTOKE BOXING CLUB IS ON THE HUNT FOR NEW HOME
AS THEIR RECENT ARRANGEMENT ENDED JUNE 30, THE CLUB IS SEEKING A MORE PERMANENT SOLUTION.
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Boxing Club is searching for a space that can accommodate classes, equipment and maybe even some future endeavors.
The Boxing Club’s former location in the Revelstoke industrial area was closed after a city inspection deemed the structure unsafe for occupancy. The club was able to secure space at the Revelstoke Rod and Gun Club’s Camozzi Road location, but the boxing club had to move out by the end of June.
In their search, the club is trying to decide between securing a place even if temporarily, or waiting until a more permanent spot is available.
“Losing our last space, we didn't lose a lot of members,” Jessica Stewardson, Revelstoke Boxing Club coach said. “I don’t think we’ll lose members if we have to keep finding spaces, but we want a space to keep our gear.”
Until finding space at the Rod and Gun location, Stewardson was keeping weights, heavy bags and other boxing gear in the back of her truck. The possibility of jumping from temporary space to temporary space where gear cannot be permanently set up has her feeling exhausted.
“We want a place where our gear has a home, where we’re not spending time setting up and tearing down before and after every single class,” she said.
With the average rental price at about $2,000 a month, finances are creating another barrier to accessing a more permanent space for the club.
Entirely volunteer-run, the club operates on a honour system $5 drop-in fee. The fee is waived for those financially unable to pay at the time, with the trust that members will either pay past dues when able to or provide support to the club in other ways.
Grants and donations help fill the financial gaps that the accessible membership fees can’t, including purchasing a supply of gloves, wraps and other equipment members can use.
“It becomes so much more important to maintain that because of the affordability challenges that are out there,” said A.J. Lerose, Revelstoke Boxing Club coach. “To give people that affordable space where they can come and work out, meet people and be part of something.”
Anyone who might have access to a space or organizations willing to work with Revelstoke Boxing Club to secure a more permanent space can call or text Lerose at (250) 814-9403 or message the club via their Facebook page.
Evan Parliament, Revelstoke’s chief administrative officer says he's eager to show Revelstoke to municipal administrators from across Canada. Photo provided by City of Revelstoke
Revelstoke Boxing Club is looking for a new home to host classes, such as the one recently held with the Revelstoke Girl Guides. Photo provided by Revelstoke Boxing Club
REVELSTOKE’S CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER IS READY TO PUT REVELSTOKE ON THE RADAR OF OTHER CANADIAN MUNICIPALITIES.
THIS MONTH AT COUNCIL
REVELSTOKE CITY COUNCIL COVERS BYLAW UPDATES, DEVELOPMENT AND MORE.
By Lys Morton
Water Regulations Bylaw amendments approved
The bylaw now states the municipal water schedule will have oddnumbered addresses water between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Even-numbered addresses water between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Mondays are reserved for supply refreshing, maintenance needs and distribution operations.
The change in bylaw hopes to help residents preemptively restrict water usage during Revelstoke’s Stage One water use levels before stricter measures are needed during drought or emergency situations.
“Any attempt to restrict water consumption in the face of climate change and anticipated drought conditions is being both proactive and responsible,” chief administrative officer Evan Parliament said in support of the bylaw amendment.
Council approves cash-in-lieu amendment
Developers with housing agreements as part of their approval can now provide Revelstoke with cash-in-lieu of constructing affordable housing units. It’s a move Mayor Gary Sulz believes will put more control in the hands of the city when it comes to future development of affordable housing. The money will be added to Revelstoke’s Affordable Housing Reserve, a resource the city can use to fund non-market housing projects that would either be owned by the city or provided to housing groups such as the Revelstoke Community Housing Society.
Developers can now either meet the original requirements building affordable housing units based on the density of the zone or pay the city $37,000 per unit not built. Current development projects can reassess and opt into the new cash-in-lieu option.
Municipalities are waiting to hear from the province about how practices like cash-in-lieu could work out in future zoning changes, city planner Erica Hartling told council.
“I don’t see having to change this provision because the province is trying to have more allowances to provide for more increased housing and affordable housing,” Hartling said.
Mill Street and Victoria Road access to Centennial Park closed
Downie Timber Ltd. was issued a licence of occupation for their Mill Street and Victoria Road access points in an effort to curb public use of the roads to access Centennial Park. Per the lease agreement with Downie Timber Ltd. and the city, the roads were originally to remain public access routes, but Downie Timber Ltd. reported frequent cases of residents and visitors crossing through the Downie lumber yard in an attempt to reach Centennial Park, interacting with heavy machinery and large vehicles.
The two roads will now be classified as private property. Downie Timber Ltd. does have the option of installing gates to prohibit access which will not affect emergency vehicle access to Centennial Park if needed, director of engineering and public works Steve Black noted.
“The fire department would have an access code or key to make sure that they can utilize that,” Black said.
As part of the agreement, Downie Timber Ltd. agreed to install water meters for all buildings connected to Revelstoke’s water within the lease land and pay for metered usage instead of paying an annual bulk rate of $28,800.
Staff will reach out to mapping resources such as Google Maps to have the Centennial Park access routes through the Downie lumber yard removed from map databases.
Council passed issuing a licence of occupation to Downie Timber Ltd. with Coun. Austin Luciow opposed.
Council
delays BC Transit annual operating agreement
Council deferred signing off on the 2024-2025 Annual Operating Agreement (AOA) with BC Transit after concerns that information needed about the current partnership was not available. The AOA is a partnership between the City of Revelstoke, Revelstoke Mountain Resort and BC Transit to provide public transit through the region and health transit from Revelstoke to other districts through Revelstoke Connection Ltd. This requires an annual agreement to be signed off.
Lack of funding last year restricted BC Transit’s ability to share operations with the resort shuttle and restricted vehicles and hours. Council expressed concerns on lack of accessible transit routes and services in the area including customer
The staff report noted that even with a less than favorable winter, ridership through the shuttle services increased and the resort shuttle still brought in higher profits than the previous year even with the fee dropping from $4 to $2 per ride.
The hybrid model of BC Transit and Revelstoke Connection operating public transit in the city showed success based on ridership and revenue numbers, the staff report mentioned. “...generating revenues 10 per cent higher than the year previously is a good indication of the potential success of operating the systems in a combined fashion.”
Still, council felt it necessary to delay approval and future discussion on the matter is delayed until Tuesday, July 9. A special council meeting took place Thursday, June 27 to discuss the transit topic.
Revelstoke Grizzlies new regulation ice time won’t affect users
BC Hockey’s recent reclassification of divisions prompted the Revelstoke Grizzlies requesting to join the new Junior A division. The team will require priority ice time standings during hockey season and be classified as the primary tenant for the Revelstoke Forum’s ice. Staff presented to council a reworked Ice Allocation Policy to align with the Grizzlies potential addition to the Junior A division.
Coun. Aaron Orlando raised concerns about whether the new allocation could affect other ice users during the Grizzlies season, but Laurie Donato, director of parks, recreation and culture assured council that current booking practices already prioritize minor hockey league games and practices, meaning little scheduling changes moving forward.
Currently all ice users for the upcoming season meet in June to plan out schedules and potential alternative dates in case season games and playoff games affect previously discussed schedules.
Council approved the new Ice Allocation Policy with Coun. Orlando opposed.
East Kootenay Immigration Pilot program seeks council support
Rural communities across B.C. are working to streamline ways to provide permanent residency for workers largely in the retail, food and beverage and healthcare sectors. Expanding on the previous Rural Northern Immigration Pilot program, some communities are now partnering to create their own programs to help connect businesses with workers seeking permanent residency.
Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce presented an update on the chamber’s current work on a regional program and asked council for support for funding and in proposing Columbia Shuswap Regional District allocate up to $20,000 in Economic Opportunity Funds (EOF) be committed annually for five years to the new partnership.
Revelstoke has partnered with Fernie, Golden, Kimberly, Cranbrook and Invermere to form the East Kootenay Immigration Pilot Program in hopes of matching the success of the West Kootenay Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot project. Revelstoke has committed to providing $30,000 to the East Kootenay Immigration Pilot Program to help fund point positions that would connect with those seeking permanent residency within the partnered communities. Point position workers would then help navigate Settlement Services
Council approved the writing of a letter of support for the East Kootenay Immigration Pilot program submitting a formal request to the Columbia Shuswap Regional District for the $20,000 in EOF funds.
By Lys Morton
Emergency sheltering in Revelstoke was put to the test during 2023’s record-breaking wildfire season, when evacuation orders throughout the province saw folks seeking refuge in town. A possible repeat of the same year and future weather extremes will require a collection of resources and spaces for folks to access according to local organizations.
“For the last couple of years, the City of Revelstoke has been advertising that people can come into the Community Centre during regular operating hours,” Laurie Donato, Revelstoke’s director of parks, recreation and culture said. “We have tables and chairs set up in the MacPherson hallway."
The entire Revelstoke Community and Aquatic Centre, and attached Okanagan Regional Library Revelstoke branch, is now equipped with HEPA filtration systems, making the building a safe air space during high smoke events. As for other indoor spaces that folks can shelter at, the city relies on private organizations and nonprofits to advertise themselves and get the word out to residents and visitors.
Still, Revelstoke’s library has been not just a place to cool down, warm up or escape extreme smoke conditions. It’s a resource to regroup and plan.
“We have evacuee protocols in place and resources for evacuees,” Lucie Bergeron, Revelstoke Library librarian said.
Plus, the recent addition to the Revelstoke library space has opened up the area to allow more guests, providing more power outlets and seating for folks to stay tuned to emergency updates. It also a space where folks can find a moment of rest.
“It’s a calm space,” Bergeron said. “Even when we’re really busy it’s still quite relaxing. There’s no cost, you don’t need to spend anything to just take a moment here and collect your thoughts.”
Anyone with an Okanagan Regional Library card and account can access the computers and internet at the library, but Bergeron said folks without an account are still welcome to drop in.
Planning for weather emergencies also means planning for community members who can’t access the resources the city provides, Laura Stovel, Revelstoke Community Response Network coordinator told the Mountaineer.
“Find a heat buddy, or a smoke buddy,” Stovel
said, explaining that while there are resources available and places to shelter during extreme weather events, not everyone in town can easily access them. Connecting with someone in your community who might need a ride to a cool place or access to emergency notices from the city is key to keeping everyone safe.
If folks can get to the library, staff are ready to help navigate resources, access information and even send insurance claims if needed, Bergeron said. A frequent service provided by Revelstoke library staff includes helping guests unfamiliar with accessing and submitting information online.
Preparing to shelter in your home, or even provide shelter to others, is another key strategy residents need to be thinking of, Stovel added. In a recent Revelstoke Senior Life newsletter, she encouraged readers to find the coldest parts of their home and work to insulate windows with reflectix insulation and strategically place fans.
“We have to be ready for emergencies… but we also have to be ready to help our community members with that as well,” Stovel said. “Offer that spare room if you know someone doesn’t have an air conditioner or a place to go… We have to help each other before these events and during these events.”
Emergency sheltering in Revelstoke could now include staying at Revelstoke library's new space during extreme smoke and temperature events.
Photo by Lys Morton
CITY OF REVELSTOKE BREAKS DOWN EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEMS ON THE CUSP OF WILDFIRE SEASON
DOWNLOAD THE ALERTABLE APP, SIGN UP FOR THE CITY VIEWS NEWSLETTER AND CHECK THE CITY WEBSITE TO MONITOR EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS, STAFF SAY.
By Lys Morton
City of Revelstoke emergency communications doesn’t just rely on the Alertable app. Instead, the app, in a contract with the entire Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD), is part of a phone, email, social media and in-person alert plan.
“Revelstoke has an Emergency Management Program that works with the province and external agencies to monitor and assess hazards that could affect our community,” David Mohn, Revelstoke’s training officer and emergency program coordinator said. “If a disaster occurs, or is imminent, the city will activate an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) which will coordinate the needs of the community.”
The EOC makes the call if evacuation is needed, and coordinates with all communication channels to get word out.
In addition to Alertable, Mohn said officials would go door-to-door in the case of an evacuation order. The city also uses the Alert Ready system, which pushes alerts out to TVs, radios and cell phones in the region, interrupting current broadcasts.
Revelstoke emergency alerts are shared on the city’s website, social media channels, the City Views newsletter, larger businesses in town and local news organizations, Francesca Williams, Revelstoke’s communications coordinator said.
While the Alertable app does require users to sign up for alerts and notifications, Williams clarified that users can opt in to receive alerts via phone calls or emails as well. As of June 2024, over 2,400 Revelstoke residents and 1,290 people in the CSRD Area B have signed up for Alertable.
Revelstoke emergency communications need to go hand-in-hand with personal emergency preparations, Mohn stressed, urging residents to develop their own home emergency plan, prepare an emergency kit and pack a graband-go bag.
“This will ensure that you are ready for any situation, whether it is being self-sufficient at home for a couple days or leaving immediately,” he said.
Resources to create a home emergency plan and what to pack in a graband-go bag can be found on the PreparedBC website or at the Revelstoke fire station.
STRENGTHENING THE PLACES WE LOVE
Revelstoke emergency alert resources include the Alertable app. Photo provided by Alertable
FEATURED LISTINGS
Do you, a family member, colleague, or neighbour need some real estate advice, or want to know what houses in your neighbourhood are selling for? This is my invitation for you to call or pass along my details. I look forward to connecting with our great community!
$1,499,000
1936 SHAVER ROAD
- 11.04 Acre Lot
- 3 Bed 2 Bath - Moments from RMR and Proposed Cabot Golf Course
MLS 10316376
$1,325,000
1527 MCKINNON ROAD - 104x129 Square Foot Lot
- 4 Bed 3 Bath - Quality Renovations Throughout
MLS 10315261
$1,400,000
1765 NIXON ROAD - 0.61 Acre Lot
- 3 Bed 2 Bath - Investment Alert! - Subdivision Application in with City
MLS 10318291
TOURISM TALKS
July 25-28, 2024
From the peak of Mount Revelstoke to the banks of the Columbia River, wildflowers play an important role in our local ecosystems The Revelstoke Wildflower Festival is an annual celebration that invites nature enthusiasts and curious explorers alike to immerse themselves in the vibrant hues and fragrances of the region's diverse wildflowers
2024 marks the fifth year that Tourism Revelstoke has hosted t his festival in collaboration with local non-profits and tourism businesses During the festival you can look forward to free shuttles from downtown to the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park, educational workshops that take you behind the scenes of Parks Canada wildflower conservation, a colouring contest, an invasive weed pulling competition, interactive educational exhibits for families and much more Each event has its own participation requirements so be sure to visit our website
rare opportunity to save you the hassle of parking during one of the park's most popular seasons. Whether you're looking to get an alpine hike in, or just enjoy the views on the ride up, the shuttle is a great way to save gas and enjoy everything the park has to offer
Whether strolling through fields ablaze with color or participating in educational sessions, the Revelstoke Wildflower Festival promises a memorable and enriching experience , celebrating the splendor of British Columbia's floral heritage amidst stunning mountain vistas
Check
Photo | Tyler Cave @tylermcave
KYLE SCOTT, REVELSTOKE CONTENT CREATOR, HIGHLIGHTS FIRST RESPONDER STORIES
SCOTT IS THE LATEST REVELSTOKE LOCAL
TO RECEIVE A TELUS STORYHIVE GRANT.
By Lys Morton
Kyle Scott, Revelstoke content creator is the latest from the region to receive production funding and support from the TELUS STORYHIVE program. He’s now working to use the $12,000 in production funding, equipment, support and training to highlight the stories of Revelstoke’s first responders in an upcoming video podcast series.
“Revelstoke has all these different first responder bodies that we need for our area,” Scott told Revelstoke Mountaineer. As much as Revelstoke relies on paramedics, volunteer firefighters, local ski patrols, search and rescue teams, wildland firefighters and the military patrols that assist in avalanche control, Scott feels communities don’t quite know how the organizations work.
“I’ve kind of always been connected to first responders,” Scott explained, sharing that his grandfather was a paramedic in Ontario and uncles have worked in various Ontario fire departments. Scott himself has worked in local ski patrols, Revelstoke’s volunteer firefighter department and is currently working to join the BC Ambulance Service.
Scott has some experience with filming, podcasting and other media creations, but is a beginner in audio and video podcasting production.
“When I saw this opportunity present itself I jumped to try this other media angle in another topic that I'm passionate about.”
Not only is Scott focusing on showing what life is like as a first responder and what the day-to-day might look like, he’s hoping to help dispel some misconceptions and shine a light on what drives someone to these roles.
“You get the Chicago Fire tv show narrative of folks jumping into burning buildings, but I know for firefighters our focus is on safety. You can’t rescue if you’re being unsafe.”
The day-to-day doesn’t end once a shift is over, and Scott plans to showcase some of the ways first responders are part of their communities outside of the role.
The series, currently titled Revelstoke Responders: Story Behind the Siren is set to air on TELUS Optik TV, Stream+ and STORYHIVE’s YouTube channel at the start of 2025.
STORYHIVE video podcast series must be eight to 10 episodes long, running for at least 30 minutes each. Previous STORYHIVE projects, including Katie Burrell’s documentary and comedy series can be found on the STORYHIVE website and YouTube channel. Ryan Collins’ People Like Us was created with the support of STORYHIVE and can be viewed on Vimeo. As for other aspiring creators in town, Scott encourages them to explore programs like STORYHIVE.
“Some really great projects have come from this program and I hope I can do them proud, and do our community proud as well.”
Kyle Scott, Revelstoke content creator is the latest local recipient of STORYHIVE funding support for an upcoming video podcast following local first responders. Photo provided by Kyle Scott
REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT PROVIDES UPDATES ON STAFF HOUSING, UTILITIES UPGRADES AND INFRASTRUCTURE
‘WE REALLY SAT DOWN WITH THIS PROJECT AND REIMAGINED THE RESORT,’ JASON KELDER, RMR CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER SHARES.
By Lys Morton
Revelstoke Mountain Resort (RMR) held a June 17 open house and presentation at Revelstoke Community Centre for a crowd of 75 residents seeking clarification on current and future projects at the resort. Peter Nelson, RMR vice president of operations and Jason Kelder, RMR chief development officer fielded questions on future water usage, plans for parking expansion and staff housing.
Staff housing
Phase one of RMR’s main staff housing project is slated to be open for occupancy by 2025, providing 160 beds. Two more phases of staff housing planned for completion after 2026 will bring the total occupancy to 480 beds. Current modular housing on site is reserved for construction workers focused on the building of staff accommodations, The Karl hotel and other projects taking place in and around RMR.
Plans are for the staff accommodations to be apartment style, providing kitchens for each unit. RMR expects staff to access town resources such as Southside Market to facilitate their stay.
“We expect them to create and live a life here,” Kelder said.
New and future projects
The Karl, RMR’s new hotel and conference centre with 154 rooms is expected to be completed in time for the 2025-2026 winter season. It will become the new home of Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing, providing three helipads for tours to leave and return right at the resort. The Karl will include 6,700 square feet of conference space, and a new restaurant, bar, spa and
fitness facilities for guests. According to Kelder, The Karl was a key fixture in RMR’s reimagining of the resort’s focus and future development.
“We really sat down with this project and reimagined the resort, what it was, what it’s going to be and how it’s going to evolve,” he explained.
Attendees asked for clarification on the return of previous hill amenities that were lost during COVID-19 restrictions, including one of the upper mountain warming huts that now functions as a storage unit for ski patrol resources and emergency gear.
“We’re planning to build another warming hut to replace that unit,” Nelson said, but was unable to confirm an estimated timeline when new warming facilities would be available.
Growing infrastructure
RMR’s plans for growth includes updating infrastructure, including completing an on-site 1.7 megalitre reservoir as well as another water source at a higher elevation to take pressure off city infrastructure.
“This reservoir [at the resort] provides water redundancy for Arrow Heights neighborhood and everything south of the Illecillewaet,” Kelder said. Water mains are nearing completion, but the installation of a booster station to help bring water up from lower elevations has been on hold due to manufacturing delays on key parts.
RMR is looking to solve parking issues by improving current parking lots and building transit routes to the city. Some attendees worried the focus on transit was part of the resort's plans to reduce parking for future developments, but the increased transit routes could provide locals an additional option to get on the hill while leaving parking open
for guests and those staying at the resort hotels.
“We're not going to constrain parking artificially, but if we can partner with the city and BC Transit, then there's so many good reasons for the environment, for safety…that an expanded transit system is something we're going to be focused on,” Kelder said.
South access parking lots will be accessible for the summer season, but north parking lots will remain unavailable during the realignment and utilities work on Camozzi Road, which includies reinstalling sanitary, storm, water and gas infrastructure.
Leveling out the ground and removing two hills that cause traffic are key projects in the redesign of Camozzi, Kelder noted. While the completion of Camozzi will include a multi-use trail providing access between RMR and Mackenzie Village, that route to the resort will remain closed until an estimated Fall 2024 completion.
Attendees asked if the old walking trail that followed Camozzi is still accessible in the meantime or if guests traveling by foot and bike would need to access RMR via the Airport Way detour. Current work on and around Camozzi means non-workers need to stay clear of the area, Kelder and Nelson both stressed.
Heavy duty equipment and blasting makes the area unsafe. The level of work taking place is all in an effort to complete what could be multiple years of work into the summer season and fall shoulder.
“It’s not pleasant, but we’re going to get it done and move on. Next year those same kids will be on a dedicated trail,” Nelson said.
Wastewater struggles
Concerns that continued growth in and around RMR, including plans for townhome development aligned with the Cabot Revelstoke golf course will increase wastewater struggles the City of Revelstoke has been plagued with for the last decade. Attendees to the open house asked how RMR would be assisting the City of Revelstoke in increasing sewage infrastructure down the road or if they would be taking on projects themselves.
“That has been a core priority of city engineering,” Kelder said. “We’ve been in discussion with them and trying to support them as well.”
The main hurdle to increased wastewater management lies in part with the province, Kelder said, focusing on what some consider “moving goalposts” for the City of Revelstoke to meet to secure financial support from the province and wastewater treatment expectations. When pressed by audience members on how RMR is supporting the city, current and future development plans were pointed to as the financial support from RMR.
“If there wasn’t growth, all the sanitary treatment upgrades would be funded by current taxpayers,” Kelder said. “We have new developments that contribute money, existing developments that contribute [to city finances]. The city is better at chasing other levels of government to contribute to this.”
Winter season update
RMR saw lower than anticipated numbers this winter, Nelson explained, pointing to their lowest and highest temperature recorded within two weeks of each other.
“From a visitation standpoint, this last season was a little disappointing. For those who run businesses in town, you probably felt that a little bit. But it wasn't tragic, this season was still probably our second or third best visitation ever, despite the weather.”
Revelstoke Mountain Resort's June open house focused on current and future project updates including staff housing.
Photo by Lys Morton
REVELSTOKE YOUTH SKATERS SEND IT AT REVY BOWL JAM
THE GO SKATE DAY CELEBRATION LAUNCHED SOME FRIENDLY COMPETITION WITH YOUTH STAKERS TAKING THE LEAD.
By Lys Morton
Revy Bowl Jam 2024 brought crowds down to Kovach Park for a day of friendly competition, skateboarding appreciation and music curated by event organizer John Richards. Revy Bowl Jam marked Go Skateboarding Day, an international event created in 2003 celebrating skateboarding culture.
Competition categories were broken down into women under 18, men under 18, women over 18, men over 18 and non-binary skaters. Mavis Gokiert and Edie Noble went head-to-head in the women under 18 category, but also took an opportunity to showcase their comradery in the bowl, running multiple lines together.
“She [Gokiert] basically roped me in,” Noble said. “I saw the posters at Society and around town, but she invited me.”
Gokiert might have caught the eyes of judges and audiences alike in pre-competition warm-ups with her repeated drops into the steeper bowl, showcasing advanced board handling and line planning, but Noble wowed the crowds during competition time when she landed tricks on the ledge, a feature in the main bowl that breaks the usual carve line and provides a two-foot space to land on and jump from.
Within the 15 minutes of skate time, Gokiert showcased her ability to build speed and keep control, taking advantage of the entire lower bowl section of the park with audiences cheering on. Both Gokiert and Noble performed clean board handling with various rock to fakies and clean jumps out of the bowl. The hearty competition between friends seemed to match the general mood of the event, Gokiert told the Mountaineer.
“Normally there isn’t that many people here getting to watch, but the vibe today is just really fun stuff.”
Revy Bowl Jam 2024’s men under 18 category saw Indi Gokiert, Niko Lapshinoff and AJ Pitaoulis all taking on the main bowl to show off their aerial skills. While the bigger air tricks meant a couple more scrapes and bruises, an upbeat vibe from the crowd made it easy to get back on the board, Lapshinoff said.
“Everyone’s just been really supportive, really excited today. It’s super hot today, but it’s really fun,” he added.
Heat and lack of cloud reprieve from the sun didn’t seem to hinder the event, and all competitors hoped the success would mean more competitions and
Mavis Gokiert showed no fear throughout Revy Bowl Jam 2024,both when dropping into the pool bowl and rocking out of the main bowl. Photo by Lys Morton
REVY.LIVE OUTSIDE
ANNOUNCES SUMMER 2024 LINE UP
MUSICIANS FROM ACROSS CANADA WILL BE PERFORMING THROUGHOUT REVY.LIVE OUTSIDE AT GRIZZLY PLAZA, HOSTED BY ARTS REVELSTOKE.
By Lys Morton
REVY.Live Outside 2024 has announced concert dates for a summer packed with free live music at Revelstoke’s downtown Grizzly Plaza. The summer concert series brings talent from around Canada to perform during Revelstoke’s evenings with concerts starting at 6:30 p.m. and everyone is welcome to bring a seat down and enjoy the performances.
“At REVY.Live Outside, we are committed to creating a platform that welcomes an array of artists, from local talents to touring acts, and holding space for equitydeserving groups to perform,” Stacie Byrne, Arts Revelstoke’s executive director said in a press release for REVY.Live Outside 2024.
Of the over 50 performers signed up for REVY.Live Outside 2024, 10 are local bands while nearly 50 per cent of the line up are new to REVY.Live Outside.
REVY.Live Outside 2024 series line-up
JULY
Tuesday, July 2: Apollo Suns
Wednesday, July 3: Charles Benjamin
Thursday, July 4: Road Waves
Friday, July 5: Chuck Copenace
Saturday, July 6: GOLD MYND
Sunday, July 7: Maritime Kitchen Party
Monday, July 8: The Unfaithful Servants
Tuesday, July 9: wiL&Co
Wednesday, July 10: The Rev
Thursday, July 11: Myra Morrison & Denis Severino
Friday, July 12: Bobby Dove
Saturday, July 13: Leila Neverland
Sunday, July 14: Katie and the Other Guys
Monday, July 15: Kaeley Jade
Tuesday, July 16: Kayla Williams & The Yacht Daddies
Wednesday, July 17: Shoestring Necktie
Thursday, July 18: HALF/ASIAN with Amy the CODA
Friday, July 19: Vibetown
Saturday, July 20: Two Crows For Comfort
Sunday, July 21: Mip Power Trio
Monday, July 22: The Misery Mountain Boys
Tuesday, July 23: Daring Greatly
Wednesday, July 24: Dylan Menzie
Thursday, July 25: Talel McBriar
Friday, July 26: Chloe Davidson
Saturday, July 27: Pickle Juice
Sunday, July 28: Munro & Patrick
Monday, July 29: Mallory Chipman
Tuesday, July 30: Tyler Del Pino & The Brasstronautz w/ opener Gabbie Cournoyer
Wednesday, July 31: T. Buckley
AUGUST
Thursday, Aug. 1: L'omelette
Friday, Aug. 2: O'Stella
Saturday, Aug. 3: Amanda Penner
Sunday, Aug. 4: TBD
Monday, Aug. 5: Blind Bay Blues Band
Tuesday, Aug. 6: Mike Edel
Wednesday, Aug. 7: Big Süz
Thursday, Aug. 8: Brass Camel
Friday, Aug. 9: TBD
Saturday, Aug. 10: Chris Alonso w/ opener
Sunday, Aug. 11: Headwall
Monday, Aug. 12: Rose Brokenshire
Tuesday, Aug. 13: John Hewitt & the New Americans
Wednesday, Aug. 14: Tennyson King
Thursday, Aug. 15: Dawn Pemberton
Friday, Aug. 16: Oh November & Chelsea OW
Saturday, Aug. 17: AHRF
Sunday, Aug. 18: Cave Arcade
Monday, Aug. 19: Gabbie Cournoyer
Tuesday, Aug. 20: Bob Rogers Band
Wednesday, Aug. 21: Mariya Stokes
Thursday, Aug. 22: Kailee Duggan
Friday, Aug. 23: Jed & The Valentine, Brianna
Lizotte, and Ethan Graves
Saturday, Aug. 24: Dixie Fried Hep Katz
Sunday, Aug. 25: The Porch Hounds
Orderly Disorder
by Barbara Olson
"What ___ mind reader?" 23 Little kiss, in Québec
The quip continues ...
Tantalizes 32 First aid course topic 33 B.C.'s intl. airport 34 Actress Witherspoon
35 Middle of the quip
41 The quip continues
45 Season after printemps 46 One who finishes the cake? 47 End of the quip 54 Like a girl preferring overalls to party dresses, perhaps 55 Reason to say "Pee-yew!"
56 "Use the bow," in a violin score
57 Theatre award
58 Canadian writer Heather O'___
59 Grazing lands
60 Where Gorbachev ruled: Abbr. 61 Piece of Lamb
1 Noodle concoction?
2 Spongy ammo maker 3 Trio quantity, in Germany 4 Detaches, as a necklace
5 Rough amount, as a contract cost
Thrifty 7 One of TV's "Mod Squad" 8 Actor Alan of "M*A*S*H"
9 More smooth-talking
10 He's as "cuddly as a cactus", per Seuss
11 Skin-coloured, as nylons
12 Be a partner in crime
13 Hump day: Abbr.
19 Penthouse suite selling feature
21 Bites, puppy-style
24 "Er, that is to say ..."
25 Come at ___ (aren't free)
26 "Brain" of a PC
27 Brontë's Jane and family
28 CanaDream driver, say
29 Calls a spade a club, say
30 Gillette product, with "II"
31 "___ mouse!" (musophobe's squeal)
35 "___ haw!" (hoedown hoot)
36 Coniferous branch attachment
37 Newer software versions
39 Words after "Peek-a-boo"
40 "Veni, vidi, ___"
42 Greek isle of poet Sappho
43 "Airplane!" autopilot
44 Opposite of yon
47 Achy, say
48 Place that's "fun to stay at", in a disco hit
49 Game of marbles
50 Just the way it appears
51 Hi's wife in the comics
52 "Be-Bop-A-___" (1956 hit)
53 Every 12 mos.
54 Randy Bachman's son
AT REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT
Experience Revelstoke's top summer attraction.
Experience Revelstoke's top summer attraction. This familyfriendly ride features two Mountain Coaster tracks with twists, turns, tunnels, and the option to reach speeds of up to 42 km/h!
climb, jump and free fall
Swing, climb, jump and free fall your way through a four-story ropes course. Challenge yourself on more than 50 different beginner, intermediate, and advanced obstacles.
feet on the Revelation Gondola
Glide to 5,500 feet on the Revelation Gondola for breathtaking views of the Columbia River and mountain ranges, hike through subalpine rainforests to wildflower meadows and alpine lakes, and enjoy Revelstoke’s best burgers at the Mackenzie Outpost.
Try your hand at the 9-hole Woodchuck Disc Golf Course near the village base and unleash your inner lumberjack with Peak Axe Throwing.
